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Auburn Public Theater Revamps Programming and Physical Space

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. ater-revamps-programming-and-physical-space.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, March 22nd 2026 at 7:11 GMT by fingerlakes1
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Auburn, NY - March 22nd, 2026 - The Auburn Public Theater (APT), a cornerstone of the Finger Lakes region's cultural landscape, is undergoing a significant transformation. Led by Executive Director Brad Rounds and Artistic Director Emily Davis, the historic venue is actively reshaping its programming and physical space to broaden its appeal and secure its future as a vibrant community hub. The leadership team recently discussed these changes in detail during an appearance on 'Beyond the Front Page,' offering a glimpse into the ambitious plans unfolding at the theater.

For decades, the Auburn Public Theater has been synonymous with quality theatrical productions, drawing audiences from across central New York. However, acknowledging the evolving demographics and entertainment preferences, Rounds and Davis are spearheading a strategic shift designed to attract a more diverse audience without compromising the artistic integrity that defines APT. This isn't simply about filling seats; it's about fostering a more inclusive and representative cultural experience.

"We're looking at expanding our offerings beyond traditional theatrical performances," Rounds explained. "While we remain deeply committed to presenting high-quality theater, we're also exploring opportunities to host concerts, film screenings, comedy shows, and other events that will appeal to a wider range of tastes. The goal is to become a true multi-arts center."

Davis emphasized the careful balance required in this expansion. "It's crucial that any new programming aligns with our core values. We want to maintain our reputation for artistic excellence and continue to present works that are thought-provoking and engaging. However, we also want to be seen as approachable and welcoming to everyone, regardless of their prior experience with the performing arts." This commitment involves not only the type of performance, but also pricing structures and community outreach initiatives designed to break down barriers to access.

Alongside the programming changes, APT is currently immersed in building renovations. While details regarding the scope of the renovations were not fully disclosed, the leadership team revealed that the capital campaign - a significant fundraising effort - was instrumental in making these improvements possible. The initial episodes of the theater's new podcast, 'Stage Right,' delve into the campaign, featuring interviews with key donors and community leaders who championed the project.

This brings us to another key component of APT's evolution: its foray into the world of podcasting. 'Stage Right' isn't merely a promotional tool; it's a deliberate attempt to extend the theater's reach beyond its physical walls. In an increasingly digital world, Rounds views the podcast as a vital means of connecting with potential patrons who may not be able to attend performances in person.

"We realized that many people are interested in the arts, but they might face logistical challenges that prevent them from regularly attending the theater," Rounds stated. "'Stage Right' allows us to bring the magic of APT to them - offering a behind-the-scenes look at our productions, introducing them to our talented staff, and sharing the stories that make this theater so special."

Davis expanded on the podcast's potential. "It's a fantastic platform to showcase the incredible talent that fuels our theater, both on stage and behind the scenes. We can highlight the work of our actors, designers, technicians, and volunteers, giving audiences a deeper appreciation for the collaborative process of creating live performance." Future episodes are planned to include interviews with visiting artists, discussions of upcoming productions, and explorations of the history of the Auburn Public Theater.

The launch of 'Stage Right' underscores APT's commitment to embracing new technologies and engaging with audiences in innovative ways. It reflects a broader trend within the arts sector, where organizations are increasingly leveraging digital platforms to expand their reach and build relationships with supporters. The podcast is available through FingerLakes1.com and will also be syndicated on local radio stations, ensuring a wide audience.

The Auburn Public Theater's revitalization is more than just a series of programming changes and renovations. It's a bold vision for the future of a cherished cultural institution - one that seeks to balance tradition with innovation, artistic excellence with accessibility, and a commitment to the local community with a forward-thinking approach to audience engagement.