THEATER TRANSFORMATION
BUZZ
COURTESY OF RIVIAN
THEATER TRANSFORMATION
Last December , one of Laguna Beach ’ s most beloved structures reopened its doors as electric vehicle company Rivian debuted the newly reimagined South Coast Theater . Located on South Coast Highway across from Main Beach , the historic building has been a theater since the 1930s — and still features space for film screenings and other social events . But the 11,000-square-foot Rivian South Coast Theater has also been transformed into a place where the automaker can educate locals and visitors about sustainability and the impact of electric vehicles alongside a luxury retail experience . A multiyear restoration preserved the ticket booth , marquee , balcony , 129-seat auditorium and more , with the R1T truck and R1S SUV now on display in the lobby as well . Other additions include the merchandise-filled Gear Shop and a cafe with drinks from Equator Coffees ; since the December launch , films that align with Rivian ’ s mission are being shown in partnership with the Laguna-based Coast Film Foundation . ( rivian . com ) — Ashley Ryan
16 SUMMER 2024 | LATITUDE33MAGAZINE . COM