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