Waynesboro, VA - In 2026, the historic Wayne Theatre celebrates two significant milestones, marking 100 years since its original opening in 1926 and 10 years since reopening in 2016 as a restored nonprofit performing arts organization. The dual anniversary is recognized throughout the year with special programming, community celebrations, and events that reflect the theatre’s past, present, and future.
The Wayne Theatre first opened its doors on January 18, 1926 as a vaudeville and motion picture house, promoting itself as the finest theatre in the Shenandoah Valley. Over the decades, the theatre experienced periods of growth and change, as well as major challenges, including a devastating fire in 1980 and eventual closure in 1999. For several years, the building remained closed as the community considered its next chapter.
That chapter began when local leaders and supporters came together with a shared vision to restore the Wayne as a community asset. Through sustained fundraising, advocacy, and volunteer leadership, the theatre was restored and reopened on March 1, 2016. Since that time, the Wayne Theatre has grown into a nonprofit performing arts organization serving Waynesboro, Augusta County, and the surrounding region.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the Wayne Theatre’s long history while also celebrating the growth and impact of the last decade,” said Tracy Straight, Executive Director of the Wayne Theatre. “It is a chance to recognize the people, partnerships, and planning that have shaped the theatre into what it is today.”
Since reopening, the Wayne Theatre has presented professional touring artists, produced local and regional performances, and welcomed patrons from 33 states and numerous countries. The theatre has expanded its role beyond performances to include robust arts education programming through Studio Wayne, which serves learners of all ages. More than 14,000 students have participated in Studio Wayne programs, which include theatre, music, dance, technical theatre, and creative enrichment opportunities for children, teens, and adults.
Arts education remains a central pillar of the Wayne Theatre’s mission. Studio Wayne provides access to high-quality instruction led by professional teaching artists, offering pathways for creative exploration, skill development, and lifelong learning.
The Wayne Theatre’s signature anniversary event is the Wayne Gala, taking place on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The Gala is the organization’s premier fundraising event and a centerpiece of the anniversary celebration. The evening features live and silent auctions, live music, dinner, dancing, cocktails, and pop-up performances throughout the theatre. Proceeds from the Gala support the Wayne Theatre’s performances, education programs, and community initiatives.
“The Wayne Gala brings together artists, supporters, educators, and community leaders for an evening that supports the arts throughout the year,” Straight said. “In this anniversary year, the Gala is especially meaningful as we celebrate both the theatre’s history and its continued role in our community.”
Additional anniversary programming throughout 2026 reflects the Wayne Theatre’s legacy and its ongoing commitment to live performance and arts education. Details about special performances, events, and opportunities to engage with the anniversary celebration are announced throughout the year.
As the Wayne Theatre looks ahead, its focus remains on sustainability, access, and serving the community through live performance and education.
For more information about the Wayne Theatre, its anniversary celebrations, or the Wayne Gala, visit waynetheatre.org.
Media Contact:
Standout Arts, LLC
540.300.1278
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