The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a historic groundbreaking on July 23, 2026, for its Avon reCreated Transformation Project, a reconstruction and expansion that will preserve the theater's 87-year-old character while creating one of the Northeast's most technologically advanced independent cinema and arts centers.
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons joined community leaders, donors, and supporters to mark the start of construction. The project will restore the historic theater and add three state-of-the-art screening venues, including a third theatre dedicated to education, community programming, and emerging filmmakers. A dedicated Education Center, a Café and Wine Bar, and expanded lobby and hospitality spaces are also planned.
Once completed in September 2027, with a grand reopening in late October 2027, the facility will feature premium stadium-style 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, and accessible seating and restrooms.
“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. They emphasized that the project will create a world-class cinema arts center serving audiences, students, and families for generations.
Executive Director Peter H. Gistelinck called the milestone “the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” noting that the expansion will redefine the independent cinema experience. The Avon Theatre recognized collaboration among private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, and corporate partners.
During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, bringing films, filmmaker conversations, and educational programs to venues like Ferguson Library, The Bruce Museum, and Darien Library. The theater will provide regular updates on construction milestones and programming leading up to the fall 2027 reopening.
The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center, a member-supported nonprofit since 1939, aims to strengthen its role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization by expanding its capacity for independent, international, documentary, classic, and educational programming.
