The Edmonds Theater, a cherished part of Rick Steves’ life since the 1960s, is now owned by the philanthropist and travel icon. With personal connections to the single-screen theater on Main Street, Steves recalls memories of watching movies there and even shares the sentiment that his first kiss may have occurred in its balcony.
He plans to renovate the theater, a $2 million investment, to enhance its Art Deco architecture, which he believes is currently underappreciated. Despite challenges facing theaters nationwide, Steves emphasizes the importance of keeping this venue as a community gathering space, allowing nonprofit organizations to utilize the facility for their meetings as well.
While the financial return on his investment may not be significant, he values the intangible benefits it brings to the community. Currently, the theater is screening the documentary The Last Picture Shows, which reflects the challenges faced by old movie houses in the West.
