the Zeiterion TURNS 100!

A centennial birthday is cause for celebration! Join us throughout the year as we honor this amazing milestone.

Share Your Z Stories

In addition to the celebratory events, we’re collecting YOUR stories. Please call the Zeiterion Story Hotline at (774) 425-3417 to share a memorable moment that took place at the Zeiterion (or State Theatre) or your hopes for its future.

A Century of History

On April 2, 1923, the Zeitz family opened the last of downtown New Bedford’s glittering theaters. A hundred years later, we honor the Zeiterion – the only one of these theaters that remains operational today – and its storied history. Read more.

About the Zeitz Family

In 1922, Barney Zeitz incorporated Zeiterion Realty Corp., employing brothers Morton, Fisher and Harry. Its first project was to build a grand vaudeville theater on Purchase Street – The Zeiterion, later The State. Their empire went on to include five New Bedford theaters.

Famous Faces

The Z has presented hundreds of world-class performers over its storied history, bringing entertainment and inspiration to the rich community of New Bedford.

Joan Armatrading • Chris Isaak • Howie Mandel • Alan Cumming • Joan Rivers • Wanda Sykes • Martha Graham Dance • George Carlin • Jasmin Guy • Arlo Guthrie • BB King • Bernadette Peters • Blondie • David Byrne • W. Kamau Bell • Weird Al • David Crosby • Cyndi Lauper • Chris Daughtry • David Sedaris • Jay Leno • Mariza • Lily Tomlin • Matthew Morrison • Katharine McPhee • Melissa Etheridge • Bob Woodward • Gloria Steinem • Patti Smith • William Shatner • Tony Danza • Trombone Shorty • Peter Frampton • James Brown • Willy Nelson • Crosby & Nash • Yo-Yo Ma