A hundred years after the Zeiterion first opened its doors, and 40 years since its last major renovation, we’re embarking on a top-to-bottom building transformation and creating a true community space for the arts!
What began as an idea to improve patron experience at The Z has grown into an ambitious historic restoration and renovation project that will usher the 100-year-old building into the next century. Our vision will transform The Z into a stunning state-of-the-art facility and a community living room bustling with activity. Where the home of three outstanding arts organizations – the Zeiterion, The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, and New Bedford Festival Theater – can showcase artists on multiple stages, offer educational opportunities, and build a cohesive community through the arts.
The 14-to-18-month project will restore historic elements and unused spaces will be given new life. When The Z re-opens, you'll experience new seats, a new sound system, and improved bathrooms. You’ll also find an expanded lobby, a glorious marquee, and more space for community connection and creative expression.
We are well on our way to making this vision a reality, but we’re not there yet. Soon we will need your help to get us to our next act.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like more information, we’d welcome the opportunity to hear from you.
At the heart of this project is the historic restoration of the 10,900 square foot theater.
This project underscores The Z’s commitment to strengthening education programs with a total of 1,800 square feet of dedicated education space.
The renovated third floor adds a large movement studio and a second classroom space for learning through the arts.
Sound and lighting updates to the main auditorium improves the performing arts experience for artists and patrons.
Updated administrative offices create a dynamic home for Zeiterion and NB Festival Theatre staff and board.
Dedicated volunteer space provides a home base for our dedicated volunteer usher corps.
A new hydraulic orchestra pit lift will service the main auditorium and provide a storage home for our original Wurlitzer Organ.
The Zeiterion’s multi-million-dollar project is the next catalyst for downtown New Bedford’s growth and regeneration. With an estimated $10 million annual economic impact on the region, this project will play a significant role in the post-pandemic economic recovery. We believe it is a keystone project that weaves together the many investments in the city and region in the years to come, furthering our goals of nurturing a more vibrant and cohesive community.