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Cranston’s Park Theatre Introduces Staff, Announces Fall 2024 Programming

Cranston’s Park Theatre Introduces Staff, Announces Fall 2024 Programming

At a press conference earlier today, Park Theatre staff and local officials announced the reopening of the historic Cranston venue. Officials also announced the first concert series, which includes five events planned for the fall, with more to come.

Media and community members welcomed Brandon Caron, COO of Spectacle Live, a leading concert and event management company based in Lexington, Massachusetts. Caron spoke at the event alongside Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins and venue manager Sara Shevlin.

Caron expects the theater to serve as an economic engine for the city. “A vibrant, bright, sustainable theater allows local communities, local restaurants and bars to be able to hire staff and continue to grow,” Caron said.

Cranston Mayor Hopkins noted that Rolfe Square, where the theater is located, serves as the city’s arts center. “The Park Theatre is not just a performance venue,” he said. “It is a symbol of hope, resilience and the transformative power of the arts. By continuing to support the historic Park Theatre, we are investing in the future of our great city.” Hopkins pledged to support the theater as it resumes operations, including providing parking behind Cranston City Hall, adding outdoor lighting and enlisting the support of public safety officials.

“I think the park is a great anchor for this neighborhood,” said City Councilmember Nicole Renzuli-Martins. “As a City Councilmember, I spend a lot of time in Rolfe Square and other economic corridors in Cranston. There are a lot of businesses that are interested in partnering with the theater, a lot of restaurants that would like to have dinner and a show type of arrangement to attract customers. I hope the City Council and the mayor can work together with the venue to encourage economic development.”

Site manager Sara Shevlin said community members regularly share fond memories of their visits to the park over the years. She is hiring staff and plans to work with community organizations to enhance programming in the future.

Below is the preliminary schedule of fall concerts, with more shows expected to be added next week.

Friday October 4 – Jim Henson’s Maze Runner: in concert

Friday, October 18 – Chazz Palminteri: A Bronx Tale Live

Saturday November 16 – Lonestar

Saturday, December 7 – Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes

Sunday 8th December – The Irish Tenors: A Family Christmas

Tickets for these shows will go on sale Friday, July 19 at 10am here.

For more details, see the Park Theatre website.