From Art-House to Community Hub: The Columbus Theatre of Providence, RI

​​The Columbus Theatre, a historic gem in Providence, Rhode Island, was originally envisioned and built by Domenic Annotti in 1926. Designed by architect Oresto DiSaia, also known for his work on the Metropolitan Theatre and Veterans Memorial Auditorium, the theatre boasts striking interior frescoes and murals by artist George di Felice, including the evocative “The Music Sensation.” Opening on November 1, 1926, with the film La Boheme and stage programs, the Columbus Theatre featured seating for 1,492 and quickly became a cultural landmark. Alongside the Providence Performing Arts Center, it remains one of Rhode Island’s finest historic movie theatres.

Located on Broadway between downtown Providence and Olneyville Square, the theatre was renamed the Uptown Theatre in 1929, catering primarily to the Federal Hill neighborhood with second-run films. It also served as a hub for Providence’s Italian community, hosting Italian stage plays, musical performances, and films. In 1962, under the ownership of Jon S. Berberian, it reclaimed its original name, Columbus Theatre, and evolved into Providence’s first twin cinema with the addition of a “Studio Cinema” in 1965. The programming included art and specialty films, competing with the Avon Cinema, but later shifted to adult films for several decades.

By 2001, the Columbus Theatre reintroduced first-run art-house films, though limited audiences led to its eventual focus on hosting live events. It became home to the Rhode Island International Film Festival, which holds its annual festival and other programs on-site. Despite challenges, the theatre remained a cherished cultural center, hosting movies, concerts, and community events. Its final movie screening, Wong Kar Wai’s In the Mood for Love, took place on June 6, 2024, and its doors officially closed after a concert by Jessica Kirson on June 9, 2024.

On October 25, 2024, the theatre entered a new chapter when Comedy Connection purchased it, announcing plans to reopen under its previous name, Uptown Theatre. As it transitions to new ownership, the historic venue continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Providence residents and stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.