1920s
↑The Zeiterion Theatre opened its doors on April 2, 1923, with “Troubles of 1922,” written by and starring George Jessel.
The theater did not meet with immediate success. Shortly after, in September 1923, it reopened as the State. ↓
1920-1950s
In the 1930s, the theater’s blade was removed and the marquee expanded.
By 1949, the arch was replaced by a three-paneled awning marquee with “Zeitz State” atop each panel.
In the 1950s, the Zeiterion building operated as the the State, a downtown movie house.
Five world premieres were held at the State, including the most notable: the 1956 opening of Moby Dick, attended by Gregory Peck. ↓
1960-1970s
↑In the 1960s, the Zeiterion building was still operating as the State, a downtown movie house.
By the 1970s, most of New Bedford’s 17 once-glorious theaters no longer existed. The then-State was “modernized,” a process that included restoring its 2,000-pound chandelier. ↓
1980-1990s
↑ In the summer of 1982, John Bullard—later mayor of New Bedford—cut the ribbon as the Zeiterion Theatre reopened following its donation to W.H.A.L.E. and a volunteer-led renovation. The theater had closed in 1979 and faced demolition. The first phase of the renovation focused on electrical upgrades, stage lighting, proscenium restoration, and lobby rehabilitation.
In July 1983, Governor Michael Dukakis toured the theater during the second phase of the renovation, which included restoration of the house, HVAC upgrades, basement dressing rooms, the counterweight system, and stage lighting positions.
In the 1990s, the relationship between the Zeiterion and the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra became firmly established.
2000s
In the 2000s, the Zeiterion welcomed exceptional performers such as Whoopi Goldberg, Cyndi Lauper, B.B. King, and James Brown.
2010s
In 2014, the Zeiterion underwent a $1.1 million façade restoration, including brick repointing, repairs to three banks of doors with detailed millwork, and renovation of the original architectural white terracotta trim.
2020s
In 2022, The Zeiterion announced a major restoration project, a $37 million capital improvement that will add a new lobby, a classroom, a movement studio, and a speakeasy lounge.
In April 2023, the Zeiterion celebrated its 100th anniversary, featuring the anniversary cake with American Idol’s Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard.
In summer 2024, the 18-month renovation and reconstruction began.