After five years of operation in the heart of Vancouvers Commercial Drive neighbourhood, the Rio Theatre has a lot to celebrate. Besides providing East Van with a multi-purpose music and cinema venue, the theatre was at the centre of a highly publicized legal battle regarding the modernizing of Prohibition-era liquor policies that threatened to shutter its doors for good. After months of financial uncertainty, the Rios dedicated staff and supporters emerged victorious when the laws were changed in April 2012. The Rios 5th Anniversary Show on April 20 will feature musical performances from Beekeeper, The Broken Mirrors, and more; comedy and spoken word; and burlesque. The show will also mark the unveiling ofthe art-deco auditorium doors that were saved from the recently closed Ridge Theatre. Show at 8pm. $10/$13. 19+
