Historic theater will reopen with new name

CRANSTON, R.I.—The $10 million makeover of the Park Cinema in Cranston includes a new name, according to developers.

The historic theater will be dubbed the Rhode Island Center for Performing Arts when it reopens in a few weeks.

“We felt we needed an expanded brand. We wanted to be seen nationally by artists and managers and talent agencies,“ RICPA’s Jack Nicholson said.

Developers said the 1,200-seat performing arts center can also double as a conference facilty.

“The stage is designed in such a way that is a promoter’s dream,“ owner Piyash Patel said.

RIPCA officials said several shows have already been booked, but they said they won’t be announced until the theater is ready to open.

“A special theatrical series, numerous one-nighters featuring a variety of popular entertainers, several locally produced events and a series of popular and independent films, special closed circuit presentations and televised major sports attractions are expected to be among RICPA’s annual events,“ a news release announcing the cinema’s new name said.

The renovated Park Avenue complex includes an Internet cafe, a lounge, a restaurant and a banquet hall. 

A 400-space parking lot is across the street.