The Strand: More Than a Century of Entertainment in Providence

The Strand Ballroom & Theatre has been part of downtown Providence’s entertainment landscape for more than a century. Located at 79 Washington Street, the venue originally opened on June 12, 1915, and is recognized by The Strand as Providence’s oldest operating theatre.

Originally designed as a vaudeville theatre, The Strand later became the Paramount Theatre as motion pictures grew in popularity. Over the decades, the building changed uses several times before returning to live entertainment.

In more recent years, the historic space became closely associated with Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel and Roxy Providence before reopening as The Strand Ballroom & Theatre in 2017 following extensive renovations. Improvements included a raised stage, upgraded sound and lighting, improved sightlines, remodeled VIP areas, updated seating and new dressing rooms.

Its stage has hosted an unusually diverse range of performers, including Johnny Cash, The Three Stooges, Oasis, The Notorious B.I.G., Pantera, Ice Cube, Kendrick Lamar and Kings of Leon. Today, The Strand continues that tradition with concerts, comedy and special events spanning rock, hip-hop, country, Latin music, metal, EDM and other genres.

For generations of Rhode Islanders, The Strand has remained a place where Providence history and live entertainment meet.