THE ZEITERION IS BACK!
Zeiterion Performing Arts Center
New Bedford, MA
This month marked a momentous milestone for arts, culture, and community on the SouthCoast as the historic Zeiterion Performing Arts Center officially reopened its doors following a transformative 18-month, $37 million renovation. WNB One Radio was honored to stand alongside community partners, local leaders, and residents in celebrating this major achievement — amplifying the excitement and sharing the spirit of renewal with listeners across the region.
On January 16, The Zeiterion showcased its stunning transformation — from restored historic elements and expanded public spaces to 1,200 new seats and modern accessibility upgrades. The revitalized performing arts center once again became a vibrant cultural hub, featuring laughter, music, and applause echoing downtown New Bedford streets — proof that the arts are alive and thriving here on the SouthCoast.
WNB One Radio has long believed in supporting community institutions that strengthen local culture, and we were proud to broadcast stories of progress, promote the reopening celebrations, and help spread the word about The Zeiterion’s return. Through on-air mentions, social media posts, and community outreach, we joined in rallying support for an institution that brings:
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Arts and entertainment to life
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Economic energy to local businesses downtown
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Gathering spaces where neighbors and families connect
As a station dedicated to uplifting voices and experiences across the region, we recognize The Zeiterion as much more than a theater. The Z a cultural cornerstone in New Bedford and a source of pride for the SouthCoast.
GROUND BREAKING NEWS
Zeiterion Performing Arts Center
New Bedford, MA
The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, Massachusetts held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 28, 2024 to celebrate the start of a $37 million renovation and restoration project. WNB One Radio, along with Sparrow's Eye Business Consulting, join the event that took place under a tent outside the historic theater at 684 Purchase St. and was attended by around 200 people, including community members, arts and culture advocates, and legislators.
The project is expected to take 14–18 months to complete and will restore the theater's historic beauty while adding modern amenities, lighting, and sound. The plans also include more space for educational programs, such as a dance studio on the third floor, and new areas in the basement for events, performances, and film screenings. The second floor will also have a new lounge that can be used as an event space.
To symbolize the project's reimagining of old traditions, the event concluded with leaders breaking a ceremonial wall instead of shoveling dirt.
HBCU College Fair
Zeiterion Performing Arts Center
New Bedford, MA
The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center is entertains, educates, and inspires its community by presenting an array of high-quality performing artists and providing engaging learning opportunities that contribute to the cultural, social, and economic vitality of the Southcoast.
On Martin Luther King Day 2024, the Zeitrerion partnered with WNB One Radio and other local organizations to host an exciting college fair event to bring awareness to Historically Black College & Universities (HBCUs), with featured guests, DRUMLINE LIVE!
DRUMLine Live is an international tour based on the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band tradition. With riveting rhythms, bold beats and ear-grabbing energy, this stage show is a synchronized musical showcase of the HBCU experience.
Incorporating original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of top 40 hits, group performances range from colorful, choreographed routines to heavy doses of drum riffs and cadences.