The Riviera Theatre
Originally constructed as a silent film theater, the Rex Theatre was built by the Aprile family and opened its doors in 1914. New management changed the name to the Riviera in the ’50s, and the last movie shown was in 1995. The Riviera Theater, an anchor building for the Village of Geneseo, sat neglected and derelict for almost 20 years.
In 2014, the new owner, Palace Properties, began the project of restoring the theater and marquee with the assistance of a Rural Area Revitalization Project Grant of $150,000, applied for and administered by Livingston County Economic Development. The newly renovated theater opened in early 2015, completely renovated and brought up to modern standards, including all new wiring, plumbing, insulation, and HVAC. Original furnishings and wall coverings have been replicated as close as possible to the 1923 renovation.
Once the building was stabilized, two residential units were created on the upper floor. With the assistance of Rural Area Revitalization Project funds, the theater and marquee were brought back to their former glory. The Riviera is now a multi-use cultural anchor for the village and a center for community events. The stage has been enlarged; a dance floor and dinner seating have been added to accommodate all kinds of events from dinner theater to presentations and musical performances. Catering services are also available.
With its doors opened and marquee lit, the Riviera Theater has once again become an anchor for the community of Geneseo and Livingston County.
