Thevetsri
Historic performing arts venue for cultural events.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
$80.0k | Grant | ||
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
Related Content
The Veterans Memorial Auditorium, commonly known as The VETS, is a historic performing arts venue located in Providence, Rhode Island. Construction on the theater began in 1928 but was stalled by the Great Depression; it was ultimately completed and opened in 1950. The state of Rhode Island acquired the complex in 1945 and tasked architect Oresto DiSaia with completing the project. Situated on the Avenue of the Arts, the venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The VETS operates as a center for a wide range of cultural events, including concerts, theatrical productions, educational events, and community traditions. It is home to several resident companies, such as the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, Festival Ballet Providence, and FirstWorks. The business model involves renting the venue for public and private events, including performances, corporate functions, and special gatherings. The theater, which seats just over 1,900 people, is noted for its combination of size and intimacy, as well as its acoustics and ornate interior. It is managed by Professional Facilities Management, the same company that manages the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), and is overseen by the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority.
Over the years, The VETS has undergone significant renovations to maintain and upgrade its facilities. A major restoration occurred in 1990, and in 2015, a multi-million dollar renovation transformed it into a state-of-the-art performance facility with new event spaces. The venue has hosted a diverse array of legendary artists and performers. In 2021, it achieved GBAC STAR accreditation for its stringent cleaning and disinfection protocols.
Keywords: performing arts venue, historic theater, Providence events, concert hall, live performance, Rhode Island culture, orchestral music, ballet, theatrical productions, event rental, community arts, National Register of Historic Places, proscenium stage, cultural center, live music, arts and entertainment, special events, corporate functions, historic architecture, arts partnerships