SeaComm pledges $250,000 for Massena Schine Theater programming
SeaComm has pledged $250,000 over 10 years to support programming and operations at the Massena Schine Theater, which will carry the name Massena Schine Theater: A SeaComm Community Arts Center through 2036.
By the ClickNNY North Country Desk
SeaComm has pledged $250,000 over 10 years to support programming and operations at the Massena Schine Theater in Massena. The theater will carry the name Massena Schine Theater: A SeaComm Community Arts Center through 2036.
The funding is separate from the theater’s Unlock the Schine capital campaign. It is intended to support events and performances after construction is complete, with the Massena Arts and Theater Association board overseeing the money.
The Schine Theater dates to 1918 and closed in 1995. The Massena Arts and Theater Association, a nonprofit that owns the building, plans to restore it as a cultural center with classic films, live performances, music and community events.
The project has received $2.74 million in grants from Empire State Development’s Restore New York program, the village’s Core of the Community program and the New York Power Authority’s Power Proceeds program. A $1.5 million construction loan involving SeaComm, the Development Authority of the North Country and the St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency was established to be repaid from grant reimbursements.
The Unlock the Schine campaign was launched to raise the final $400,000 needed to unlock grant funds. The first $25,000 match was unlocked in August 2026. SeaComm also gave $50,000 in 2025 toward restoration of the theater marquee.
Construction and interior renovations are underway. The Northern New York Community Foundation said substantial completion was targeted for early 2027. The theater’s website, massenaschinetheater.com, and its Facebook page provide updates and donation information.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
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