Veterans Memorial Auditorium

About Us

Veterans Memorial Auditorium (VMA) is located on the revitalized Avenue of the Arts. With just over 1,900 seats, VMA is acclaimed for its unique combination of size and intimacy, enjoyed by both audience and performer. On the National Register of Historic Places, the VMA is celebrated for its proscenium stage and exquisite interior.

History of the VMA

The 1920’s saw the rise of grand Masonic complexes across the United States. As part of the movement, the Rhode Island Freemasons planned an ambitious complex designed by Osgood & Osgood, one of the era’s noted architectural firms. Work began in 1927, and foundations and building frames were constructed before economic times changed drastically in 1929. Work was halted, and the project lay dormant until the 1940’s.

By the 1940’s, the State of Rhode Island took over the project. Near the end of World War II, the community pushed to complete the Auditorium component as Rhode Island’s first professional performing arts venue.

On January 27, 1950 the Auditorium is officially opened. The dedication plaque reads:

“The Veterans Memorial Building is dedicated as a living memorial to all Rhode Island Veterans in recognition of their patriotic service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America during times of war.”
- Governor John O. Pastore

Over the first three decades of operation, scores of legendary performers illuminated VMA’s stage, including such classical and contemporary greats as Pavarotti, Nureyev and Tony Bennett.

In the 1990’s a community groundswell to save VMA, coupled with public investment to partially refurbish and restore the Auditorium, provided the impetus for resuming performances and community traditions. Today Veterans Memorial Auditorium is a treasure for all to experience.