The Avon Theatre – Deborah & Chuck Royce Cinema Arts Center celebrated a historic groundbreaking for its Avon Recreated transformation project on July 23, 2026, marking the start of a $30 million reconstruction and expansion. Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons joined community leaders, donors, and supporters to kick off the project, which will preserve the theater's historic facade while creating one of the Northeast's most advanced independent cinema and arts centers.
The project includes a fully restored historic theatre, three state-of-the-art screening venues, a dedicated Education Center, a café and wine bar, and comprehensive ADA accessibility improvements. New technology will feature 4K HDR BARCO Laser Projection Systems and immersive Dolby Atmos® sound in the main theatre. 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."
Executive Director Peter H. Gistelinck emphasized the project's community impact: "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."
During construction, the Avon will continue its mission through the Avon on Tour initiative, bringing films and educational programs to venues across Fairfield County. The project is funded by private philanthropists, foundations, public agencies, and corporate partners.
Since 1939, the Avon has been a cultural cornerstone in downtown Stamford. The transformation will expand its capacity to present independent, international, documentary, and educational programming, strengthening its role as Fairfield County's premier nonprofit cinema arts organization.
