Image: Advantage Hope / Facebook / Ali Marsman, a new resident, is bringing a new hope with her as she looks to revive the 80-year-old Hope Cinema theatre.

By Alyssa Conti

A NEW HOPE

Hope Cinema set to reopen for 80th anniversary under new lease holder

Dec 6, 2025 | 8:43 AM

HOPE — The much-loved, historic Hope theatre may be getting a new lease on life after all, over a year since its former operators bid farewell.

New resident Ali Marsman has taken on the challenge of reviving Hope Cinema for the community.

“There’s a wonderful new person leasing the cinema, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to our community,” said community organization Advantage Hope in a social media post.

“We can’t wait to see her perform, share her gifts, and bring her fresh ideas to our town. This is such a positive step for the arts in Hope, and we’re so thrilled to support her as she begins this new chapter.”

The classically trained pianist and teacher hopes to hold sessions for a variety of performers, including theatrical productions, using the facility’s full capacity as a cinema and performance house by hosting live entertainment and a larger stage – all while still screening movies.

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Marsman told Fraser Valley Today that she’s had a positive reception from the community so far.

“Everyone has been incredibly welcoming towards me and is very excited and grateful that I am reopening the cinema!” she said.

The theatre is set to hold a grand reopening on its 80th anniversary, December 19. She is also looking to kick off 10 days of holiday movie screenings from December 20 to December 30, with a New Year’s Eve Party planned on December 31.

Looking ahead, the new lease owner is planning movie days, including a “Valentine’s Day” on the 14th of every month, where she’ll meet with local restaurants to pair dinners with a movie.

Councillor Bonny Graham shared her thoughts on the new lease, writing: “I was genuinely concerned it would get purchased by someone who would not see its historic value to our community. I hope they get the town’s support with not just their words but their wallets. That’s what keeps the lights on.”