The Union Theatre opened in 1928 with vaudeville acts and other live entertainment. It had 1,101 seats with one main screen. In 1986 it was sub-divided to attract more movie-goers. It has opened and closed several times since then.

 

This Sleeping Beauty sits in the heart of the thriving Attleboro Downtown District, within walking distance to the Providence/Boston commuter rail, multiple restaurants, the Attleboro Arts Museum, and several parks and trails. Residents from Attleboro and surrounding communities hold dear memories of Saturday morning movies in this space, Boys and Girls Club outings, the Navy Band visiting, and so many memorable movies. 

 

For almost 25 years, the theatre has been sitting vacant. Owners Jim and Ann Friedman have been caring for her, waiting for the right opportunity to present itself, unwilling to let her become a parking lot.  They believed that the lights would one day shine again.

That day is finally here, as a local nonprofit theatre arts company (illuminate creative + theatrical arts co, inc) has recently linked arms with the Friedmans. This agreement allows illuminate, who has been bringing high quality arts education to ages 4-18 since 2013, to begin applying for grants and to launch a capital campaign to turn the lights back on. 

The long-term vision for The Union Theatre is for it to be available to our local community (think: dance schools who need a space for recitals; other theatre companies and schools who may not have a space for their events); but to also open it up for touring companies, bands, movies, conferences, events, and more.

The many benefits for Downtown Attleboro if the lights are back on:

• Economic Benefits: Revitalizing the Union Theatre will generate significant economic benefits for downtown Attleboro. The theater will attract tourists, boosting foot traffic and patronage for adjacent businesses. This increased activity will stimulate local commerce, creating jobs and supporting the growth of the downtown economy.

• Community Benefits: The Union Theatre will serve as a crucial cultural asset for the community, providing a venue for diverse events and activities that bring people together. This space will enhance social cohesion, offer educational opportunities, and foster a sense of community pride and belonging.

• Preserving Attleboro's History: The Union Theatre is a historic landmark with deep roots in Attleboro’s cultural heritage. Revitalizing this space not only preserves an important piece of the city's history but also honors the legacy of past generations, ensuring that this cultural treasure is enjoyed by future residents and visitors.

• Creating a Cultural Asset: Attleboro needs a dedicated cultural venue to host performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings. The Union Theatre will fill this gap, providing a much-needed space for artistic and cultural expression that reflects the community's diverse interests and talents.

• Retaining Creative Workforce: A vibrant cultural scene is essential for attracting a creative workforce. The Union Theatre will serve as a hub for artists, performers, and creative professionals, contributing to the city’s cultural and economic vitality.

This Campaign is being Staged In Three Acts:

• Act One: Turn the Lights On! (this campaign! Along with grants and other funds to get the doors open and the building up to code, accessible, and more)
• Act Two: Set the Stage (Amount TBA to upgrade the Performance Space and create a Blackbox Theatre)
• Act Three: Curtain Call (Amount TBA for all the finishing touches!)

 

 

 

 

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