By Robert Williamson
The New Canaan Playhouse, a cornerstone of the town’s cultural life since the early 20th century, has entered an exciting new chapter through its revitalization by Cinema Lab. This historic venue, now reimagined with modern amenities, aims to serve as both a community gathering place and a cultural hub for years to come.
A Storied History
First opened in the 1920s, the New Canaan Playhouse has long been a venue for entertainment, offering residents films, performances, and community events. After a period of decline, the playhouse found new life through the efforts of Cinema Lab, an organization dedicated to reviving small-town theaters across the country. With a blend of historic preservation and innovative programming, the Cinema Lab team has transformed the theater into a modern cultural landmark.
The reopening marks the culmination of a collaborative effort involving state and local government officials, private donors, and community leaders. A $2 million state grant—secured with the support of Senator Ryan Fazio and Representative Tom O’Dea—played a critical role in funding the project. Fazio, speaking at a recent screening, praised the partnership between public and private sectors, saying, “This will serve as the anchor for New Canaan’s downtown for a generation to come.”
A Place for Art, Community, and Innovation
Cinema Lab’s approach to the New Canaan Playhouse goes beyond films. The refurbished theater aims to host a variety of events, from film screenings and live-streamed opera performances to Q&A sessions with actors and directors. Among the scheduled programming is the live stream of Metropolitan Opera productions and National Theatre performances, including the acclaimed Frankenstein starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller.
The theater’s mission also includes fostering independent films. According to organizers, Cinema Lab plans to balance popular blockbusters with smaller, independent films, offering a diverse array of entertainment for the community. The goal is to make the playhouse a vibrant cultural center where art and conversation flourish.
“We’re working on bringing in filmmakers, producers, and talent for post-screening discussions,” said Luke Parker Bowles, a driving force behind the project. “We want to make this a place where creativity happens and conversations start.”
Cinema Lab Pub and
Marquee Lounge
In addition to the theater, the Cinema Lab experience extends to the on-site pub, which has quickly become a favorite among visitors. Offering a carefully curated menu, the pub balances comfort food with refined touches. Dishes such as the Deviled Eggs with pimentón and chives, the Burrata Caprese with candied Sicilian pistachios, and the Dry-Aged Pub Burger with English cheddar have earned high praise. For dessert, the Sticky Toffee Pudding—a decadent combination of pineapple rum dulce de leche and vanilla buttercream—leaves a lasting impression.
The pub also boasts a cocktail menu designed to complement the seasonal dishes, featuring creative garnishes like dried citrus and ginger. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere encourages guests to linger, whether they stop in for a meal before a film or unwind with a drink after a show.
Upstairs, the Marquee Lounge offers a more exclusive experience. Open to members throughout the day, it provides a tranquil space to work, hold meetings, or simply relax. Day passes are available for $20, giving non-members access to the space and amenities. The lounge underscores Cinema Lab’s commitment to creating a community-centered venue.
Looking Forward
As the playhouse settles into its new identity, the leadership at Cinema Lab emphasizes that community feedback will continue to shape its offerings. “Our goal is to listen and respond to what the community wants,” Parker Bowles noted. “We’ve expanded our menu and upgraded our coffee service based on input from residents. This project is about more than entertainment; it’s about building something the whole town can be proud of.”
Events like the screening of Reagan—an exclusive pre-release event attended by local dignitaries—highlight the theater’s role in both celebrating culture and fostering civic pride. Fazio, speaking at the event, reflected on the importance of preserving local heritage while embracing innovation. “We all need to study and know history in order to be good citizens,” he remarked.
The playhouse’s leadership hopes that with each event, film, or gathering, the venue will strengthen its role as the heart of downtown New Canaan. As Parker Bowles concluded, “We want this to be a place where everyone feels welcome—where memories are made and the community comes together.”
With its blend of history, innovation, and community focus, the New Canaan Playhouse stands poised to enrich the town’s cultural landscape for years to come.
