Providence Performing Arts Center

The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), situated in the heart of Providence's arts and entertainment district, is a premier venue for touring Broadway productions and contemporary engagements. With a seating capacity of 3,100, it stands as the second-largest theater of its kind in the United States. Since its establishment, PPAC has been a pivotal launch site for national tours, with twenty-one inaugurated at the venue since 2008, earning it a reputation as a leading cultural institution and the "Jewel of Weybosset Street." PPAC's origins date back to October 6, 1928, when it opened as the Loew's Theatre Building, designed by the renowned architectural firm Rapp & Rapp. Known for its stunning beauty and grandeur, the theater has been a fixture in the community for over nine decades, despite facing challenges such as financial difficulties, declining attendance, and damage from hurricanes in 1938 and 1954. The latter resulted in the loss of the theater's original Morton pipe organ. In 1972, the theater underwent a name change to the Palace Concert Theatre and later faced the threat of demolition due to continued disrepair and financial losses. However, local community leaders and figures, including Governor J. Joseph Garrahy, Bruce Sundlun, Mayor Vincent A. "Buddy" Cianci, Jr., and Mrs. B.A. Sylvia Dario, rallied to save the building. Their efforts led to the theater's transformation into a center for the arts, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Providence. In 1977, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1978, it was purchased by seven founding members, transitioning into a non-profit private corporation known as the Ocean State Performing Arts Center. The name was changed in 1982 to the Providence Performing Arts Center to honor the city's commitment to saving the venue. Since then, PPAC has flourished through the dedication of its board members and administrative staff. Notable renovations and restorations have enabled the theater to host large-scale productions, including "The Phantom of the Opera," "Miss Saigon," "Wicked," and "The Lion King." The theater has also seen technological advancements with the installation of a state-of-the-art electronic marquee, LED display screens, and digital boards. PPAC's commitment to historical preservation is evident in its ongoing restoration projects, such as the Grand Lobby, Arcade, and House, as well as the meticulous façade restoration recognized with a Rhody Award for Historic Preservation Project in 2021. The theater's rich history is also celebrated through the presence of the Mighty Wurlitzer, a rare 5/21 Wurlitzer Organ installed in 1982, which replaced the original organ lost to Hurricane Carol. Today, PPAC stands as a testament to the cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy of Providence, offering a diverse range of performances and educational outreach programs, and continuing to enchant audiences with its historic charm and world-class entertainment.