In the heart of historic downtown Riverhead on Long Island stands a testament to the bygone era of elegance and entertainment—the Suffolk Theater. A unique Art Deco gem, this historic venue has weathered the sands of time, evolving from a bustling movie house to an 18-year dormant period and finally emerging as a state-of-the-art performing arts center. In this exploration, we delve into the rich history, meticulous restoration, and the vibrant present of The Suffolk Theater, capturing its essence as a cultural cornerstone on Long Island.
A Glimpse into History
The Suffolk Theater, designed by the distinguished architect R. Thomas Short, opened its doors on December 30, 1933. A review in The Riverhead News on January 5, 1934, painted a vivid picture of luxury and comfort, hailing it as “Long Island’s prettiest and most complete playhouse” and likening it to “the Radio City Music Hall of Long Island.” Throughout its early years, the theater served not only as an entertainment hub but also as an official issuing agent for U.S. war bonds during World War II.
However, the winds of change brought about by shifts in shopping habits and the rise of multiplex cinemas forced The Suffolk to close its doors in 1987. The theater remained on the market until 1994 when the Town of Riverhead intervened and purchased the historic venue. The subsequent years saw The Suffolk lying dormant, waiting for a renaissance.
In 2005, the visionaries Dianne and Bob Castaldi stepped in, purchasing The Suffolk with the ambitious goal of transforming it into a modern, flexible performance space. Despite the numerous challenges, the Castaldis approached the restoration with unwavering determination and love for this historic landmark.
A Labor of Love: Restoration and Transformation
The restoration project gained momentum in 2011 with the unveiling of the theater’s newly renovated state-of-the-art LED marquee. The colorful, electronically animated marquee marked a significant step forward in breathing life back into this cultural icon. After five years of meticulous research, investment, planning, and negotiations, The Suffolk emerged from its slumber, transformed into Long Island’s favorite playhouse.
The Castaldis spared no effort in refurbishing and restoring practically every facet of the historic theater while re-imagining the space for a new generation. Their commitment and hard work garnered recognition and awards, establishing The Suffolk as a symbol of resilience and cultural revival.
The Grand Reopening: A Night to Remember
On March 1, 2013, The Suffolk Theater celebrated its grand reopening with a historic ribbon-cutting ceremony. The occasion was marked by Hollywood-style searchlights illuminating Main Street, an audience of over 500 people dressed in 1930s attire, and a red carpet entrance. Former New York City Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia, portrayed by actor Tony Lo Bianco, welcomed the attendees. The night unfolded with period cars, ushers, cigarette girls, and the infectious music of Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the theater’s heyday.
As people danced the night away, history was made once again, and the resounding cheer echoed: “There’s always something to celebrate at The Suffolk!”
A Cultural Hub: The Suffolk Today
The Suffolk Theater has redefined itself as a flexible performance space and special event facility. Its owners have opened its doors to a myriad of events, including weddings, corporate functions, benefits, and more. The theater has become a pivotal force in transforming Main Street into a vibrant downtown, drawing people to the heart of Riverhead.
Former Town Supervisor Sean Walter captured the significance aptly, stating, “To have it open and add a thousand people a day to Main Street, or 2,000 on the weekend… this provides the critical mass we need for everything to survive.”
Upcoming Events at The Suffolk Theater
The Suffolk Theater’s commitment to offering diverse and engaging performances continues with a lineup that caters to various tastes. Noteworthy among the upcoming events are:
- The Four Horsemen – Saturday, November 25, 8 PM
- A tribute band dedicated to delivering the authentic Metallica experience.
- Focusing on Metallica’s first four classic albums, The Four Horsemen promise a high-caliber execution and an unforgettable show for metal enthusiasts.
- Preservation Hall Jazz Band “A Creole Christmas” – Sunday, November 26, 7 PM
- A celebration of New Orleans classics intertwined with beloved holiday selections.
- The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, with its rich history, continues to carry the torch of New Orleans music, spreading joy and timeless spirit.
- Double Vision: The Foreigner Experience – Friday, December 1, 8 PM
- A tribute performance featuring top New York City rock musicians, delivering an authentic Foreigner experience.
- Expect a journey through hit songs from the ’70s and ’80s, including classics like “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” and “I Want To Know What Love Is.”
As The Suffolk Theater beckons music lovers and culture enthusiasts alike, these events promise evenings filled with nostalgia, energy, and the magic of live performances.
The Suffolk Theater stands as a beacon of cultural resilience and revival, a testament to the dedication of individuals like the Castaldis who have breathed new life into this historic venue. Its journey from a luxurious movie house to a dormant period and finally to a vibrant performing arts center mirrors the ebb and flow of cultural landscapes. With its rich history, meticulous restoration, and diverse events, The Suffolk Theater continues to enchant audiences, offering a glimpse into the past while embracing the future. In the heart of Riverhead, Long Island, this Art Deco masterpiece stands tall, inviting all to rediscover the elegance and entertainment it has graciously preserved over the years.
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