HISTORIC PARK THEATRE

The Historic Park Theatre & Event Center is a fully-equipped multi-purpose performing arts center that opened in 1924 and has served Cranston's cultural community for a century. Located at 848 Park Avenue just five miles from downtown Providence, this restored venue hosts live music concerts, comedy shows, ballet performances, and theatrical productions. With seating for approximately 1,000 patrons, the Park Theatre strikes a balance between intimate performances and major touring acts.

The Park Theatre offers a mid-sized professional venue with excellent acoustics and sightlines—past performers include Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Buddy Guy, Ann Wilson, Spyro Gyra, The Beach Boys, and Ani DiFranco. The venue's 1,000-seat capacity creates an intimate-yet-professional atmosphere. Multiple event spaces allow for flexibility—concerts in the main hall, cabaret-style shows in the 848 Lounge.

Built in 1924 by architects William R. Walker and Son, the Park Theatre originally functioned as a first-run movie palace featuring 988 seats, a giant screen, and luxurious heavy blue draperies. In 1963 owners attempted to demolish it for a gas station, but neighborhood residents successfully petitioned to save it. After closing in 2002, developer Piyush Patel completed a $10 million restoration, reopening October 23, 2009 as a multi-purpose performing arts center.