New Bedford’s Zeiterion Performing Arts Center Sets Date for Grand Reopening

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center has announced the date for its grand reopening following its $37 million renovation that broke ground back in June 2024.

“Big Night, Bright Lights! The Z’s Grand Reopening” will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026. It will mark the first time ever that the three organizations that call the Zeiterion Theater home – the New Bedford Festival Theatre, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra and the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center – all share the stage together.

Zeiterion Grand Reopening Lineup

The one-night-only concert will be emceed by Emmy-winning comedian Dulcé Sloan, and is being called “a joyful celebration of community” that will also feature:

• Nationally-recognized baritone and New Bedford native Philip Lima
• New Bedford musician, rapper and producer Hendrick Hernandez-Resto
• Singers and dancers from New Bedford Festival Theatre, including Erin and Matt Ban, Abby Casey, and Brooklyn Toli
• Gender-expansive ballroom dancers Michael Winward and Holly Stone
• The full New Bedford Symphony Orchestra on stage throughout the evening

“Together, these performances embody the energy and artistry that make New Bedford a cultural hub, marking the Zeiterion’s return with brilliance and heart,” according to a Zeiterion release.

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What’s New in the $37M Zeiterion Renovation

It will also be patrons’ first look at the “transformational restoration and renovation” of the Zeiterion, with its expanded lobby, brand new seats with better sight lines, upgraded lighting and sound, renovated restrooms and more.

As part of the $37 million project, the Zeiterion also will have a new speakeasy lounge in the basement, upstairs offices and classroom space, members-only lounge, illuminated digital marquee and more.

SNEAK PEEK: New Bedford's Zeiterion Readies for the Next 100 Years

“To finally reopen after 18 months of construction and years of planning is monumental; it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for,” said Zeiterion President and CEO Rosemary Gill. “And to mark this grand reopening with the first-ever collaboration with our resident companies makes the occasion especially significant, not to mention the extraordinary range of talent we have assembled. It’s going to be a truly unforgettable night for our community.”

How to Get Tickets for the Zeiterion’s Return

There will be two performances on January 17, one at 2 p.m. and one at 7 p.m. Tickets will be on sale first to New Bedford Festival Theatre members, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra subscribers, and Z members starting September 23 at 12 p.m. Public on-sale will be October 1 at 10 a.m. For tickets, visit zeiterion.org or call the box office at (508) 994-2900.

READ MORE: What Was the Very First Show at the Zeiterion in 1923?

Tickets to NBFT’s upcoming performances are on sale now. The NBSO’s 2025-26 season goes on sale Thursday, September 18, and The Z’s 2026 season will be announced on Wednesday, October 15.