What is the recent history of the theater?

The theater was converted to three movie theaters in the 1970's by installing false walls and dropped ceilings. This totally hid the stage from view from that point until just recently when we were able to raise enough money to remove the interior walls and hung ceilings.

What needs to happen to make the theater operable?

Now that we have revealed the original interior we need to correct structural deficiencies so that the building shell itself is sound and watertight. The third and final phase will be to restore the theater interior including the stage, backstage, seating, ticketing and food & beverage service areas for example.

Is there money currently available to stabilize and restore the theater?

Not at this point in time. We are working with current funding to stabilize the theater and are in the process of seeking outside funds to continue stabilization and to begin work with architects, theater designers and builders to develop a plan to renovate the theater, stage and backstage areas.

Is there enough parking to support a live theater?

A resounding yes. In addition to the nearby municipal Mary Street lot and metered street parking, the Newport Visitors Center has over 500 affordable parking spots less than two blocks away from the theater. That parking is actually totally free for 6 months of the year and very affordable the other six months of the year for both residents and visitors. This is a parking resource that theaters in most other municipalities would be thrilled to have access to for their patrons.

Is live theater commercially viable?

We have done our homework, worked with consultants and attended conferences on theater management and we are confident of the economic viability of live theater at the Opera House. Nearby municipalities such as New Haven and New Bedford have very successful live theater venues. In Newport we are blessed with a very supportive local arts community in addition the fact that the natural beauty of our area already draws visitors from around the New York/New Jersey and New England regions.

What kinds of live entertainment would be held in the theater?

We would attract professional touring groups from a wide geographic area including theater, musical groups and dance. We are in conversation with several locally based professional theater groups such as Trinity Repertory Company and Theater by the Sea to bring their performances to the restored Opera House during times when their theaters are dark during the summer and winter seasons.