New Bedford’s Zeiterion Theatre Renovation Work Continues

There has been steady progress in the complete renovation of the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in downtown New Bedford. The work began earlier this year with completion expected by the end of 2025 or early 2026.

CEO and President Rosemary Gill stopped by Townsquare Sunday to update the work being done.

"There is incredible progress on a daily basis, sometimes an hourly basis," Gill said. "We've had to tear down everything on the first, second and third floors, but now that work is essentially complete and the crews are now starting to rebuild."

That work includes creating the shell of where the elevator will be, running from the basement to the top floor, tunnels under the seats where the HVAC system will be located, and steel beams have been put in place to support the second and third floors.

Gill said that when the Z reopens, visitors will notice some changes to the lobby.

"While the so-called historic lobby will essentially remain the same, but what this project is doing is adding more space to what we call the upper lobby, where the new bar and concession area will be," she said. "Ticket holders will have access to both lobby areas, and there will be a lot more room for people to mingle and socialize."

Gill said the box office will be relocated to give it a more of a sidewalk presence, and will be open and accessible on a daily basis more easily.

"That move will be a game-changer," she said. "It will help us establish brand new operations on how to move people throughout the building on a show night."

Gill said another priority is increasing bathroom space for patrons. The new Z will feature larger bathrooms available on all floors.

If you would like to learn more about the Zeiterion renovation project or to make a donation to the cause, visit zeiterion.org.

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