Press release
Hot Docs announced that the sale of the Hot Docs Cinema building at 506 Bloor Street West closed on August 6.
The terms of the sale include a multi-year lease that allows Hot Docs to continue to operate and program the Cinema year-round.
In addition to the stellar slate of must-see documentaries and retro flicks already announced, this fall will see the return of the longrunning Doc Soup series, screening monthly from October to April, and the introduction of the Curious Minds Festival, which will take place at the Cinema this November 6 to 9.
“This sale is an important step in the organization’s ongoing journey toward financial stability,” said Diana Sanchez, Executive Director of Hot Docs. “While we are still recovering and rebuilding, we’re thrilled that Hot Docs Cinema will remain a community hub—bringing audiences outstanding documentaries, familiar favourites, and special events—while continuing to welcome fellow festivals and programming partners.”
The buyer, a long-time Annex neighbour with close ties to the community, has chosen to remain anonymous.
“As a long-time neighbour of Hot Docs Cinema, we know firsthand how integral it is to our community,” a spokesperson for the buyer has stated. “It is our goal to support the arts in Toronto and ensure that this building remains a vibrant cultural space in the Annex.”
Dedicated to conversation and community, the Curious Minds Festival will spotlight stories, voices, issues and ideas that shape our present and challenge us to think deeply about the world we inhabit. From November 6 to 9, leading thinkers in their field will bring together creators, change makers and inquisitive audiences to explore the most pressing topics of today. Speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
On October 8, Doc Soup will return for its 25th season. From October to April, the beloved monthly series will continue to showcase documentaries fresh from the festival circuit, followed by lively Q&As with special guests. Subscriptions on sale starting August 19.
To celebrate the Cinema sale, we will be offering a discount on Hot Docs Memberships starting August 19. Members receive discounts on cinema screenings and events, Doc Soup subscriptions and tickets, the new Curious Minds Festival, and the flagship Hot Docs Festival in the spring.
