A Celebration of Theatrical Proportions

Dan Schwartz

Providence will regain use of one of its most beloved historic buildings this month as Columbus Theatre reopens its doors for the first time since 2009. Originally founded in 1926, the theatre once featured vaudeville and silent films before expanding its offerings to include other film, music and theatre presentations. In 2009, Columbus was forced to close its doors due to fire code updates. Since then, owner Jon Berberian has been slaving away to meet those requirements saying, “The community has been very supportive and patient during our efforts to restore and update the building, and I look forward to this chance to give back to those who have been waiting a long time for our doors to open.”

And what a party it will be. On November 19, the theatre will host Revival!, an all-ages bash featuring music, food, beer and merriment. Most importantly, it offers the public a chance to feast their eyes on the amazing interior renovations that were recently completed. Seriously, the place is stunning. The Low Anthem has been using the theatre as a practice and recording space for the past year and will headline the party, along with fellow RI-based indie folk band, Brown Bird, the Sugar Honey Iced Tea and The Barr Brothers. Julian’s and Nice Slice will provide the food truck grub and Revival Brewing will be on tap as well, no pun intended.

Jeff Prystowsky of The Low Anthem sums up the sentiment that many are feeling quite well: “The Columbus Theatre isn’t just a venue; it’s a musician’s dream. Its architecture, design and acoustics all point towards one source: the music. Its reopening on November 17 is a revival, not just for itself, but for anyone who loves music in Providence.”

UPDATED 11/12: Due to the overwhelming response to Revival!, which sold out more than two weeks in advance, the organizers have added a second show, Revival Too!, on Sunday, November 18. The Low Anthem will headline this show as well, joined this time by Last Good Tooth, the Silks, Rachel Jorgensen and Sean Kennedy. Julian's and Revival Brewing will stick around for the second round, too. Doors open at 6 and the music starts at 7. Get your tickets here – before they sell out again.