Assembly Theatre

Built in 1934 as part of mill owner/philanthropist Austin T. Levy’s public buildings project, The Assembly replaced a previous theater which had been located on an upper floor of what was known as the Memorial Block building. That building, since razed, stood on the corner of East Avenue and Harrisville Main St. A Board of Administration… was created by Mr. Levy so as to govern the usage and maintenance of this building as well as other town properties he had donated.

Changes to the Assembly have primarily been the result of new public safety guidelines, yet the facility’s original charm remains. The external beauty of this New England structure appears in its cupola, slate roof, simple lines, landscaping and proximity to the waterfall at Mill Pond. Inside, the ambience extends from the lobby to the orchestra pit to the back stage area. Dressing rooms for male and female cast members are located in the basement below the stage. Large wooden garment racks appear in the center of each and several individually lighted mirrors are mounted on the walls of the rooms’ long sides. Adjoining rest rooms accompany each; however, only the male dressing room area includes a shower.

Technological advances have led to an improved sound system, the installation of wi-fi for Internet access, and a portable rear projection unit. While it was designed to be a theatre for live performances, it has also been used to show films.

The Assembly is located in the Harrisville Historic District, a designation conferred by the National Park Service and is listed in their National Register of Historic Places. Ample free parking is located nearby.