THE STAGE IS SET FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE
When this purchase and restoration project is completed, the historic St. James Calderone Theatre will be poised to provide the community and its visitors with a wide variety of historical and cultural events in an iconic and fully-restored historic venue.
FUTURE USE
When this building is purchased and restored...
it will provide the public with a haven for historic recreations, art shows, and music performances, enrichment and therapy through the cultural arts, a steppingstone for potential recording artists and podcasts, a gathering place for community events and meetings, as well as a powerful tool for the economic revival of the historic Lake Avenue Cultural Arts District.
As an indoor venue, it will perfectly complement Celebrate Park in St. James where outdoor cultural events will take place. The theatre’s location is easily accessible on the Long Island Railroad, with its historic railroad station just a one block away. Travelers from NYC to points east can reach St. James on the northern line of the LIRR. It is also one stop away from our neighbor to the east, Stony Brook University.
WHY IS THE THEATRE THE NEXT ENDEAVOR FOR
CELEBRATE ST. JAMES PAST-PRESENT-FUTURE?
Through the purchase and restoration of the St. James Calderone Theatre, Celebrate St. James will bring the historic and cultural arts to the St. James community and beyond through its stewardship. Forced to be sold by its owner, Celebrate St. James, a 501 ( c ) 3 not-for-profit organization, has decided to purchase and restore the iconic property so that this historic structure can be returned to its original purpose. Theatre will live again on its historic stage in the form of small productions, historic recreations, and noteworthy movies of the past. This center will provide a venue for the visual and performing arts, music and art therapy, and educational programs for all ages. It will bring to the community diverse cultural enrichment as well as social and emotional wellness through the arts.
There are many events and programs planned for this venue which will support an income stream. In addition to rentals of classroom space, a recording studio, seasonal boutiques, club meetings (dance groups, book clubs etc.), art gallery space, catered parties, and a place for community meetings when needed.
