The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center marked a historic milestone with a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Avon Recreated transformation project. The event, attended by Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, community leaders, donors, and supporters, signals the start of a comprehensive reconstruction and expansion that will modernize the 87-year-old venue while preserving its historic charm.
Once completed, the Avon campus will feature a fully restored 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 welcoming Café and Wine Bar, and expanded lobby and hospitality spaces. The facility will be equipped with premium stadium seating, luxury theatre seating, cutting-edge 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems, and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound in the main theatre. Comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements will include enhanced entrances, an elevator, seating, restrooms, and patron amenities.
Construction is expected to be substantially complete in September 2027, with a grand public reopening anticipated in late October 2027. During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, which brings films, discussions, and educational programs to venues across Fairfield County.
Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz, Board Co-Chairs of the Avon Theatre Board of Directors, stated, 'Today's groundbreaking represents far more than the start of construction—it represents an investment in Stamford's cultural future. 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.'
Executive Director Peter H. Gistelinck added, 'Avon Recreated is the realization of a bold vision to create an extraordinary destination where film, education, culture, and community intersect. We are redefining what the independent cinema experience can be.'
The project has been made possible through collaboration among private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, and corporate partners. Once reopened, the Avon will expand its capacity to present independent, international, documentary, classic, and educational programming, strengthening its role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization.
