$15M Newport Upgrade

The historic theater, once its $15 million renovations are completed, will seat 700 and bring regional and touring acts into town, including classical, popular jazz, folk, dance, theater, family programs and speakers, venue director Brenda Nienhouse told Pollstar.

“We know that it will play a significant role in the revitalization of [the historic Washington Square area], supporting year-round activities … and a broad range of live performances,” she said. “There’s not really a comparable theater in Newport for that.”

The venue was built in 1867 as an opera house and last used as a cinema until closing in 2010. The venue is expected to open in 2018.