WOONSOCKET – There was a time when it looked as if Woonsocket’s Stadium Theatre would never make it to a century.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the building at 28 Monument Square had been abandoned, shut down, and was set to be torn down, said Executive Director and CEO Courtney Blair, but thanks to a committed group of individuals, the theater refused to die.
When thinking about the Stadium’s greatest strengths, said Blair, “It all comes down to our community,” and it was volunteers and members of that community who made it a labor of love to raise the funds to breathe new life into a building and performing arts space that today is known for its vibrancy and longevity.
On Monday, the City Council presented a proclamation to the Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre & Conservatory staff honoring the theater for its 100th anniversary on Sept. 27. A formal celebration is planned for Oct. 16.
“For a century, the Stadium Theatre has been a treasured part of downtown Woonsocket, bringing generations together through music, theater, dance, education, and unforgettable performances,” said officials. “From its historic stage to the talented students of its Conservatory, the Stadium continues to enrich our community and keep the arts thriving in Woonsocket.”
They added, “Congratulations to everyone who has been part of the Stadium’s remarkable story. Here’s to 100 years!”
Since 1926, the Stadium Theatre has stood as a beacon of creativity, community, and unforgettable live entertainment, say Stadium staff, and now they are thrilled to celebrate their 100th season.
“For decades, audiences have gathered beneath our historic marquee to experience the magic of performance, from the golden age of Vaudeville to today’s world-class concerts, theatrical productions, comedy, dance, and community events,” they said. “As we honor this remarkable milestone, we are proud to unveil a centennial season packed with spectacular headliners, once-in-a-lifetime special events, and unforgettable moments unlike anything the Stadium has presented before.”
This historic celebration would not be possible without the incredible support of our community, they added.
“From loyal patrons and volunteers to performers, educators, donors, and first-time guests, you are the heart of the Stadium Theatre. Your passion for the arts has helped preserve this treasured landmark and allowed us to continue our mission of making high-quality live entertainment accessible to all. As we step into our next century, we do so with deep gratitude, tremendous pride, and excitement for all that lies ahead. Thank you for being part of our story, and welcome to the Stadium Theatre’s 100th season.”
With a donation of $100 or more in honor of the 100th year, a contributor’s name will be recognized on a commemorative donor installation, serving as a lasting tribute to the people who continue to support the arts and preserve the Stadium’s legacy for future generations.
Blair, who started working at the Stadium in January 2018, has been CEO for about the past year and a half. She said they remain very busy each week and love the work of putting on performances for patrons.
“We have a lot of fun with what we do,” she said.
What’s special about the Stadium is that it’s so accessible to such a variety of performances, said Blair, hosting the local dance performance or graduation, but also attracting star acts such as Jay Leno coming up next month. Those layers of what they offer make every month exciting for them and their patrons, she said.
On what is next for the Stadium, Blair said the goal is to continue growing the quality and scale of what they do. There is always this drive to outdo themselves each year with bigger and better ideas, she said, but author talks and other types of new events will help them reach new groups of people. She said they’re aiming to see growth within their patron base and within the community with “multiple genres and types of shows,” and they’re open to new ideas as long as they fit what the community wants.
Blair, who lives in Woonsocket, said she plans to be here for the long haul. She said living here helps her be better connected to the patron base and volunteer base, giving her a deeper perspective on what people like and what’s happening around them, such as this weekend’s Autumnfest celebration.
The Stadium Theatre was originally built under the supervision of Mr. R. E. Hall, a man also behind the Paramount Theatre in New York. In 1926, artist Maurice Compris chose a theme of muses to decorate the lobby and grand hall.
After the theater was left unused and unheated for many years, the “Save Our Stadium” Committee was formed in 1991. The non-profit Stadium Theatre Foundation was officially formed in 1996, and in March of 1998, the foundation purchased the theater.
