Blackstone River Theatre Shines

Fresh off a summer of interior and exterior renovations and improvements, the acclaimed Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland, RI has continued its run of excellent concerts this fall, including many acts appearing for their first time at the hallowed venue.

“Audiences have responded positively to the freshened-up look of everything but ultimately, it’s the performers who draw the crowds,” says Blackstone Executive Director Russell Gusetti.  But there’s no doubt, he says, that the intimate 165-seat concert hall, with a terrific acoustic sound system and an emphasis solely on the musicians, is one reason why patrons keep coming back. Plus, there’s free parking.

“As we look forward to BRT’s 25th year in Fall 2025, our mission as a cultural arts center remains the same: presenting amazing world music while also offering classes as part of the Harry Martin Heritage Arts Studio,” he says.

While the Theatre’s track record for presenting the best in Celtic music is unparalleled in New England, Gusetti says he is always trying to incorporate other cultures and genres into the programming.

“This fall we’ve had nine bands perform at Blackstone River Theatre for the first time. In addition to Irish and Scottish acts, audiences have been able to hear Scandinavian, Québécois, bluegrass, Mediterranean, Mexican and more.”

“It means a lot to me that after so many years, audiences know to trust our booking, even if they’ve never seen or heard of the band that’s playing.  As long as it’s top-notch music – which it always is – folks seem to keep coming back.”

Gusetti says the Theatre’s addition of “3 p.m. matinees in the colder months means we see more people willing to travel a farther distance, so it’s been win/win. We still get our regulars, but are now growing our audience with new lovers of music. There’s not much better than that!”

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