We are the Salmar Community Association, proud owner and operator of the Salmar Grand Cinemas and the historic Salmar Classic Theatre.
We are truly one of the most unique movie entertainment organizations you’ll find. In fact, we are one of the very first non-profit groups in North America to operate a first-run multiplex!
The Association was formed in 1946 for the purpose of constructing an arena as a memorial to local veterans of World War II. It was decided to build a movie theatre to raise the necessary funds and the brand new Salmar Theatre (now the Salmar Classic) opened for business in May of 1949. Monies from theatre operations were used to construct the Salmon Arm Memorial Arena which opened in 1958. The Association continued to provide financial support to the Arena until 1972 when operations were assumed by District of Salmon Arm.
Today the Salmar Classic is home to an outstanding variety of entertainment, from off-release movies, concerts, to Film Society offerings from around the world. Using our state-of-the-art DVD projector, we also bring you classics from yesteryear, and live broadcasts from The Metropolitan Opera in New York. With what amounts to a 25-foot-wide BIG screen TV, the possibilities are endless!
In 1997, we built The Salmar Grand Cinemas, a great four-plex which today brings you the best in first-run Hollywood movies.
All along, the Association has put 100% of our profits back into theatre improvements and into the community. We built the new Legion building across from the Grand, and we’ve given out hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations to local people and groups to support healthcare, education, sports, and the arts. We’ve helped build playgrounds, fountains, trails, and we’ve helped build better futures for young people through scholarships.
And you too can help us make a difference. Join our membership for $50 (good for your lifetime), vote at our AGM each year, and perhaps even become a director!
Thanks for taking the time to learn a little more about the who the Salmar Community Association is, and why we’re here. Come see a movie, and as always, enjoy the show!
Salmar Management
Tell us about your Coming Attractions!
From its inception, the Salmar Community Association has given grants and scholarships. A key purpose of our Society is to “provide scholarships, grants and other awards to encourage excellence and to recognize and support deserving individuals and organizations”.
We want to hear about your worthwhile projects to enhance our community and improve the lives of the wonderful people who live here. Depending on our ability to support your project, movie passes, facility rentals at reduced rates and/or cash grants may be available.
Grant requests should be submitted in writing and can be sent to our mailing address or to [email protected]. Requests should include information about your organization and the specifics of your project. All requests will be discussed at regularly scheduled Association board meetings.
Email [email protected]