Orpheum Theater in Foxborough Gets $90K State Grant for Repairs

The theater's history dates back to 1926 when it was used to show silent movies.

May 14, 2021 : Patch, by Jimmy Bentley

FOXBOROUGH — Foxborough's historic Orpheum Theater secured a $90,000 state gant for repairs.

The Orpheum, now known as the Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center will use the grant for critical safety repairs. They include a new roof, HVAC system and fire curtain. The grant is part of a $9.1 million package announced Thursday by MassDevelopment from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund.

State officials set up the fund to help restore historical landmarks, including the theater. Though it's long been used for performing arts, its history dates back to 1926 when it was a silent movie theater.

"Today's $9 million-plus in grants will be a shot in the arm for our arts and culture sector as it rebuilds from the impacts of COVID-19," MassDevelopment President Dan Rivera said in a statement.

The Orpheum was one of 69 historical buildings to receive grants from MassDevelopment this year. Awards ranged from $2,400 to $200,000.