Zeiterion Bringing Events to New Bedford Neighborhoods in June

Renovations at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford are scheduled to continue through this year and perhaps into January of 2026, but that isn't stopping "The Z" from reaching out into the local community.

Zeiterion President Rosemary Gill said the Performing Arts Center is planning two events in June to keep the public aware and provide some fun as well.

The first will happen on Saturday, June 14 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Abolition Row Park on Seventh Street. "Lift Us Up" is a free Juneteenth celebration that will feature poetry and music to honor New Bedford's abolitionist past while bringing attention to present struggles for liberation.

"We are bringing in local artists, primarily spoken word and hip hop performers that tell the story of how Black people throughout history have made an impact, not only in New Bedford but around the world," Gill said.

The second event is the "Raise the Roof" fundraiser, Wednesday, June 18 at 6 p.m. at Cisco Brewers, located on East Rodney French Boulevard in the South End. The waterfront party will live music, dancing, roving entertainers and fun activities for kids, plus a feature performances by Boston-based East Coast Soul and more. Cisco’s food and beverages will be available for purchase.

"We really know how to bring the fun, and I think this party will be a blast," Gill said.

Pay-what-you-can tickets are on sale at Zeiterion.org for a minimum of $25. Children under 12 are free.

Gill also offered an update on the renovations at "The Z."

"We might have the construction completed by December and an occupation permit in hand," she said. "We would still be moving in, but we are now considering having a soft opening or two to bring the public in and listen to what they say about the changes."

Gill added that the concrete floor in the theater is just about completely poured, and a new marquee is being planned for outside the theatre, reminiscent of what was there in 1923.

Want your non profit organization featured on Townsquare Sunday? Please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.