Arcadia Project Groundbreaking Set for Historic Staunton Theater Renovation
Staunton, VA – Feb. 19, 2026, 4:30 a.m. ET – The Arcadia Project’s Board of Directors has announced that the rehabilitation of the historic theater at 125 E. Beverley St. Will initiate on Feb. 24 with a groundbreaking ceremony at 11 a.m. In front of the building. The project aims to revitalize the landmark and expand community access to arts and culture.
Construction and Design Details
Harman Construction, based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, will lead the construction effort, with completion targeted for December 2026. According to the Arcadia Project’s 2024 annual report, Michael Brown of Staunton is serving as the architect for the renovation.
A Multi-Purpose Community Space
The renovations will focus on creating a community hub for a variety of events and activities. The revitalized space will host live music, dance performances, children’s shows, lectures, weddings, corporate events and a tour bus lunch program. A café will too be included as a welcoming gathering spot.
Blending Historic Charm with Modern Amenities
The state-of-the-art venue will feature comfortable backstage artist spaces, two new ADA-compliant restrooms, and renovated historic front-of-house facilities. The design aims to blend modern comfort with the building’s timeless character.
Phased Construction Plan
To maximize funding, the non-profit is proceeding with a phased construction plan. The initial phase will focus on the event space, back-of-house areas, café, lobby, and administrative offices. Fundraising efforts are ongoing for the second phase, which will encompass an 87-seat theater and two second-floor multimedia classrooms, designed to create a film festival environment and media education lab.
Community and Economic Impact
“This project is about more than restoring a building—it’s about strengthening downtown Staunton year-round, expanding access to arts education, generating local jobs and economic activity, and creating a welcoming place where people from all walks of life can connect through culture,” said Executive Director Pamela Mason Wagner.
A Landmark with a Rich History
The historic New Theatre, originally at 125 E. Beverley Street, later known as the Dixie Theater, has been a fixture of downtown Staunton since 1913. After a fire in 1936 and decades of operation as a movie house, the building closed in 2014.
Funding and Support
Construction is being funded through a matching grant from the Industrial Revitalization Fund, administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development. Additional funding sources include a grant from the city of Staunton, three Brownfields Grants administered by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, grants from private foundations, and support from private donors. Virginia Credit Union is also providing a construction loan to finance the renovation.
Statements from Leadership
Board President Elizabeth Respess stated, “It has been a labor of love to work on the reconstruction of this important Staunton landmark.” Staunton Mayor Michele Edwards added, “Arcadia’s plan to renovate the historic theater promises to bring renewed vitality and opportunities for community engagement to our walkable, award-winning downtown.”