Stamford, CT – The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a historic groundbreaking for its Avon Recreated transformation project, marking the start of a major reconstruction and expansion that will modernize the 87-year-old venue while preserving its historic character. The ceremony, held on July 23, 2026, was attended by Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, community leaders, donors, and supporters, signaling a new chapter for the nonprofit cinema.
The project will create a campus featuring a fully restored historic theatre, three state-of-the-art screening venues, a dedicated Education Center, a Café and Wine Bar, and expanded community spaces. Upgrades include premium stadium seating, luxury theatre seating, 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems, and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound. Comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements will enhance entrances, seating, and amenities. Construction is expected to be substantially complete by September 2027, with a grand reopening 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. "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 emphasized the project's significance: "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 Avon Theatre acknowledged the collaboration among private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, corporate partners, and community supporters whose investments made the project possible. During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, bringing films, discussions, and educational programs to venues across Fairfield County, including Ferguson Library, The Bruce Museum, Darien Library, Mill River Park, and Stamford Town Center.
The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center is a member-supported nonprofit independent cinema that has been a cultural cornerstone since 1939, showcasing independent, foreign, classic, documentary, and educational films. The expansion will strengthen its role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization.
