Greenwich Odeum Kicks-Off “ROCKTOBER” Events, Unveils New Balcony Seating and Concessions Area

BankNewport among the community supporters to help make the long-awaited addition project possible as the theater safely begins new chapter amid COVID-19 pandemic

NEWPORT, R.I. (October 2, 2020) – Where the month of October at the Greenwich Odeum is typically filled with sold out shows, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has meant changes for one of Rhode Island’s premier performing arts centers. But despite 2020 being different, the Odeum will still celebrate rock & roll with a series of special “ROCKTOBER” events. As a bonus, the theater will also unveil the addition of a new second floor balcony and concessions area.

The major undertaking – a project nearly 3-years in the works and completed earlier this year just as the coronavirus hit – transformed unused space on the theater’s second floor. It was supported generously by the community, including BankNewport. The bank awarded a $5,000 grant that the nonprofit leveraged as a two-week matching gift challenge to maximize its impact on the project.

“As a supporter of the arts, it was important to BankNewport to be part of the preservation and renovation of such an important asset in our state,” said Sandra J. Pattie, President and CEO of BankNewport. “Never for a minute, however, did we envision how much our world would change. But thanks to the dedication of many, the Odeum is ready to safely welcome back patrons and show off its amazing new space.”

“ROCKTOBER” at the Odeum will feature rocking events all month long, including live music shows of Livingston Taylor on Oct. 8, Playing Dead on Oct 17, and Rhode Island’s own Allman Brothers tribute, “Brothers All Band” on Oct. 30. The theater will also show movies that rock, like Stop Making Sense on Oct. 10, Almost Famous on Oct. 16, and Purple Rain on Oct. 23. There will be new Odeum merchandise available, as well, from hooded sweatshirts and tote bags, to facemasks and beverage holders. The Odeum has in place all the necessary health and safety guidelines to combat COVID-19. More info can be found at GreenwichOdeum.com/rock.

“Rocktober gives us the opportunity to invite the community back to the Odeum, either by coming to a live event, by buying new merchandise, or by becoming a Member,” said Amanda Ronchi, General Manager. “We think live music is vital to our community, and we are celebrating it this month so that we can keep it alive for the long term.”

In transforming the second floor, the Odeum added 74 balcony seats, increasing theater capacity by 20 percent for its largest shows. To complete the space, a comfortable upper lobby, concessions area, and new restroom were created. Along with improving the patron experience, the new seating capacity and amenities is a draw to the Odeum’s ability to book larger, national acts. During the month of October, new and upgraded memberships will include special access to a tour of the new second floor balcony as well as the legendary backstage.

About BankNewport

Founded in 1819 and headquartered in Newport, BankNewport offers a full suite of loan and deposit products and services for families and businesses throughout Rhode Island.  With $1.9 billion in assets, BankNewport is one of the oldest community banks in the United States and, as a mutual organization, is committed to the financial success of its customers, employees and communities. BankNewport has 18 branch locations, with commercial lending offices in Cumberland and Providence.

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