Newtown Theatre Renovation Project Awarded $100K State Grant

NEWTOWN, PA — Ongoing renovations at the historic Newtown Theatre received a major boost last week in the form of a $100,000 grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was on hand at the theater’s “Reel” Garden Party to deliver a large check to John Parry, representing the Community Welfare Council, which operates the beloved town theatre.

The money will be used toward the second phase of renovations focusing on the balcony and restrooms. The project, which will include private donation support, will include the replacement of the floors and seats, demolishing and rebuilding the projection room, and the renovation of the restrooms to bring them into ADA compliance.

In presenting the check, Santarsiero recounted how he worked in his hometown’s theater as a teen and then when he returned after graduating from college the theater had been razed after being neglected for several years.

“The support of so many dedicated volunteers like Dave Callahan, Andy Smith, Heather Lewis, and so many others have kept this vital part of Newtown’s history alive while also making Newtown a destination for theater, music, film screenings, and other events,” Senator Santarsiero said. “The Newtown Theatre is undeniably a jewel of Bucks County’s cultural heritage, and these renovations will guarantee the theater’s viability for generations.”

The historic property underwent extensive first-floor renovations through the spring and summer of 2021 and re-opened to the public in December 2021.

Inside the newly-renovated theatre shortly after first-floor renovations were complete in 2021. (Newtown Theatre)

The Newtown Theatre is the nation’s longest-operating theater, having been in operation since 1906. The building’s history dates to 1831 as “Newtown Hall” and had featured notable abolitionist speakers such as Frederick Douglass. The theatre, in addition to films, shows musical
performances, plays, comedy shows, and more.

Additional information about the Newtown Theatre can be found at its website.