The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a historic groundbreaking for its Avon Recreated transformation project on July 23, 2026, in Stamford, Connecticut. Mayor Caroline Simmons, community leaders, elected officials, donors, project partners, members, and supporters gathered to mark the start of an ambitious reconstruction and expansion that will preserve the theater's historic character while creating one of the Northeast's most technologically advanced independent cinema and arts centers.
Once completed, the new Avon Theatre campus will feature a fully restored historic theatre, three state-of-the-art screening venues including a third theatre dedicated to education and community programming, a dedicated Education Center, a Café and Wine Bar, 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, modern audiovisual technology, and expanded lobby and hospitality spaces are also planned. Construction is expected to be substantially complete by September 2027, with a grand public reopening anticipated in late October 2027.
Board Co-Chairs Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz emphasized the project's significance, stating that the groundbreaking represents an investment in Stamford's cultural future and will preserve the Avon's legacy while creating a world-class cinema arts center. Executive Director Peter H. Gistelinck highlighted that Avon Recreated is the realization of a bold vision to create a destination where film, education, culture, and community intersect, with expanded educational facilities, a third screening room, and enhanced amenities. The project is supported by private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, corporate partners, and hundreds of community supporters.
During construction, the Avon Theatre 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 Ferguson Library, The Bruce Museum, Darien Library, Mill River Park, and Stamford Town Center. Regular updates on construction progress will be provided through the Avon's website and communications leading up to the fall 2027 reopening.
