STAMFORD, CT — The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a defining moment in its 87-year history on July 23, 2026, as officials and supporters broke ground on the Avon Recreated transformation project. The ambitious reconstruction and expansion will preserve the theater's historic character while creating one of the Northeast's most technologically advanced, accessible, and community-centered independent cinema and arts centers.
Once completed, the new Avon Theatre campus will feature a fully restored and modernized historic theatre, three state-of-the-art screening venues including a new third theatre dedicated to education and community programming, a dedicated Education Center and classroom, a Café and Wine Bar, premium stadium-style seating, luxury theatre seating, cutting-edge 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems, immersive Dolby Atmos® sound, comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements, modern audiovisual technology, and expanded lobby and hospitality spaces. Construction is expected to be substantially complete in September 2027, with a grand public reopening anticipated in late October 2027.
“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, reflected on the significance of the milestone. “Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Avon Theatre and for the entire Stamford community. 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.”
The Avon Theatre recognized the collaboration among private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, corporate partners, and community supporters. During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, which brings 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. For more information, visit www.avontheatre.org.
The reconstruction will significantly expand the Avon Theatre's capacity to present independent, international, documentary, classic, educational, and community-focused programming, strengthening its role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization. The Avon Theatre will provide regular updates throughout construction, leading up to its anticipated reopening in fall 2027.
