The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a ceremonial groundbreaking for its Avon Recreated transformation project on July 23, 2026, marking the start of a $30 million reconstruction that will preserve the historic theater's character while adding cutting-edge technology and expanded community amenities.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons joined community leaders, donors, and supporters to officially break ground on the project, which will create one of the Northeast's most technologically advanced and accessible independent cinema and arts centers. Construction is expected to be substantially complete by September 2027, with a grand public reopening anticipated in late October 2027.
The renovated facility will feature a fully restored historic theater, three state-of-the-art screening venues including a new third theater dedicated to education and emerging filmmakers, a dedicated Education Center and classroom, and a welcoming Café, Wine Bar, and community gathering space. The complex will also include premium stadium-style seating, luxury theater seating, cutting-edge 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems, and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound in the main theatre with advanced surround sound throughout.
Comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements will include enhanced entrances, elevator, seating, restrooms, and patron amenities. The expanded lobby and hospitality spaces are designed to encourage community engagement before and after every film.
"Today's groundbreaking represents far more than the start of construction—it represents an investment in Stamford's cultural future," said Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz, Board Co-Chairs of the Avon Theatre Board of Directors. "For nearly nine decades, the Avon has served as a cherished gathering place where stories have inspired, educated, and connected our community. Through Avon Recreated, we are preserving that remarkable legacy while creating a world-class cinema arts center that will serve audiences, students, filmmakers, and families for generations to come."
Peter H. Gistelinck, Executive Director of the Avon Theatre, emphasized the project's broader impact. "Avon Recreated is much more than a building project; it is the realization of a bold vision to create an extraordinary destination where film, education, culture, and community intersect," he said. The expanded educational facilities and a third screening room will allow the theater to significantly increase its capacity for independent, international, documentary, classic, educational, and community-focused programming.
During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, bringing films, filmmaker conversations, educational programs, and community events to venues across Fairfield County, including the Ferguson Library, The Bruce Museum, Darien Library, Mill River Park, and Stamford Town Center.
Since 1939, the Avon Theatre has been a cultural cornerstone in downtown Stamford, inspiring audiences through cinema and fostering dialogue. The reconstruction is funded by a collaboration among private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, corporate partners, and hundreds of community supporters.
The project will redefine the independent cinema experience, ensuring the Avon remains a vital community asset for decades to come.
