Columbus Theatre re-opening Nov. 17

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- After being closed for three years due to fire code violations and required upgrades, the Columbus Theatre is reopening Nov. 17 with a revival celebration.

The previously endangered historic building, with its main stage and 199-seat studio performance room (part of the former balcony, now known as Columbus Upstairs), announced Tuesday its launch of the Columbus Cooperative, an organization of volunteers set to produce events for the theater and help continue to restore it, in concert with owner Jon Berberian.

During its 85-year history, the Columbus has been, at various times a movie house, or a concert hall -- and, according to movie theater guide CinemaTreasures.org, even played host to XXX-rated movies for a time, after falling on hard times financially.

The theatre's revival celebration will accommodate all ages, the theater said in a news release, and will include local band performances, food trucks and beer; half of the profits will benefit ATRAVES, a Providence non-profit organization that supports life in Nicaragua.

Tickets for the event are $20, and are on sale online.

• Related: Revival! Event Ticket Purchases

Starting in 2013, the theatre will also be available for rental by community groups and for private functions, the theatre's web site says.