The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a historic groundbreaking on July 23, 2026, for its Avon reCreated Transformation Project. The event, attended by Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, community leaders, donors, and supporters, marks the start of a comprehensive reconstruction that will preserve the theater's historic character while introducing modern amenities and expanded facilities.
The project will create one of the Northeast's most technologically advanced independent cinema and arts centers. Planned features include a fully restored historic theatre, three state-of-the-art screening venues, a dedicated Education Center, a Café and Wine Bar, premium stadium seating with luxury seats, 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems, and Dolby Atmos sound in the main theatre. The campus will also receive comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements and expanded lobby spaces designed to foster community engagement.
Construction is expected to be substantially complete by September 2027, with a grand reopening anticipated in late October 2027. During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, bringing films and educational programs to partner venues across Fairfield County.
Board Co-Chairs Susan Cullman and Arthur Selkowitz emphasized the project's significance: "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 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. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back to a stronger, more vibrant Avon in 2027."
The project is funded through a collaboration of private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, corporate partners, and community supporters. The expanded facility will strengthen the Avon's role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization, increasing its capacity to present independent, international, documentary, classic, and educational programming.
Since 1939, the Avon has been a cultural cornerstone in downtown Stamford. The reconstruction ensures that legacy continues while meeting contemporary needs for technology, accessibility, and community space. Regular updates will be provided throughout construction via the theater's website, leading up to the anticipated reopening in fall 2027.
