Columbus Theater to Reopen as Uptown - See the Launch Schedule

Columbus Theater to Reopen as Uptown - See the Launch Schedule

 

The Uptown Theater, formerly the Columbus Theater, is set to reopen.

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Uptown announced that it is set to “reclaim its spotlight with a dazzling series of upgrades and an electrifying first wave of shows. After eight months of passionate restoration under the leadership of local business owners Cory Brailsford and David Fiorillo, the theater is ready to welcome audiences back to a space that honors its century-old legacy while stepping boldly into the future.”

Since October 2024, Brailsford and Fiorillo, known locally for their successful ventures Comedy Connection and Black Duck Tavern—have poured their energy into transforming the nearly 100-year-old venue. The results are nothing short of spectacular: new lobby bars on both floors, a vibrant interior refresh, a state-of-the-art roof, modernized electrical and plumbing systems, gleaming restrooms, advanced air conditioning, a cutting-edge sound booth, a painstakingly restored ceiling, and plush new seating throughout the main theater’s first floor. Not to be missed: the original balcony seats, lovingly restored to their 1920s glory.

“It’s been an incredible journey to bring the Uptown Theater back to life,” said Fiorillo. “We’ve blended the best of the old and new, creating a space where every guest can feel the magic of live entertainment in a setting that’s both timeless and modern.”

Final touches currently underway include new carpeting installation, lighting, exterior work and the completion of the smaller theater upstairs, promising an intimate secondary space for additional events and programming.

 

Uptown Theater has announced its initial lineup:

Soft Opening Concert:

"Soundcheck LIVE" featuring bands Northeast Traffic, Jetty, and Z Boys – Your chance to be one of the first to get a glimpse of the new renovations and enjoy a night of amazing music from talented local bands. (The date is to be set this week.)

Comedy:

Kevin Nealon – August 14 (Tickets on sale now at uptownpvd.com)
Anthony Rodia – October 12 (Tickets on sale June 27th at 10 am)
Dan Soder - October 24 (Tickets on sale soon)

Concerts/Music:

Ace Frehley – September 5 (Tickets on sale soon)
moe. – September 6 (Tickets on sale June 27th at 10 am)
Deer Tick – Special New Year's Eve Show (Tickets on sale soon)

"This lineup is a great reflection of the entertainment diversity we plan to offer," noted Cory Brailsford. "Our vision is to provide Rhode Island with a premier destination for music lovers, film and comedy fans alike."

 

Golden Pass Giveaway & Century Club

In honor of the theater’s 100-year anniversary in 2026, the Uptown Theater is launching the Golden Pass Giveaway. Ten lucky fans will win free admission to every show during the anniversary year—enter for free at uptownpvd.com. Century Club members receive an additional 10 entries.

 

For those seeking even more perks, the new Century Club membership offers:

- 10 Bonus entries into the Golden Pass Giveaway
- Entry to two shows of your choice each year
- Priority access to ticket sales
- Discounts on merchandise
- Two tickets to shows of your choice each year
- 10% Discount on Bar & Concession Purchases

 

Fans are encouraged to sign up at uptownpvd.com for on-sale dates of other shows as well as announcements and exclusive presales.

 

About Comedy Connection Comedy Connection, established in 1989, has thrived under Brailsford and Fiorillo's ownership, becoming one of the top comedy venues in the country.

 

About Uptown Theater

Originally opened in 1926 as The Columbus Theatre, the Uptown Theater has long been a cultural heartbeat of Providence.