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Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Awarded $6 Million State Grant
Expansion moves closer to reality for one of the East End’s key cultural venues
The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center (WHBPAC) has been awarded a $6 million capital grant from the New York State Council on the Arts, advancing a major expansion project for the long-running East End cultural institution.
A major step toward a larger, more flexible theater
The funding supports a planned increase in seating capacity from 425 to approximately 600 to 700 seats, along with a reconfiguration designed to make the venue more flexible for a wider range of performances.
The goal is to allow WHBPAC to scale its programming while improving both the audience and production experience.
Bigger stage, bigger productions
Plans include a deeper and wider stage, a new stagehouse, and upgraded backstage facilities to accommodate larger touring productions and visiting artists.
The upgrades are intended to position the theater for more ambitious live performances and a broader range of programming year-round.
Expanding arts education and community space
New classrooms and rehearsal spaces will support WHBPAC’s Arts Academy programs, which serve students across the East End.
A planned rooftop reception area will add a year-round gathering space for community and cultural events.
What it means for audiences
A larger seating capacity gives the nonprofit more flexibility in booking high-demand performers.
It also creates potential to balance rising production costs by spreading attendance across more seats, which could help maintain broader ticket access when major acts are scheduled.
State investment in cultural infrastructure
“This funding affirms what audiences have long understood — that the arts are central to the vitality of our community,” said WHBPAC Executive Director Julienne Penza-Boone.
Governor Kathy Hochul said investments in arts and cultural institutions continue to generate economic activity and tourism across New York, calling them “a powerful asset” for local communities.
The grant is part of the New York State Council on the Arts’ Capital Projects for Arts and Culture program, which funds upgrades that improve accessibility, sustainability, and public engagement.
A restored landmark with a growing footprint
Originally built in 1932 as the Westhampton Theatre, the Art Deco building was revived in the late 1990s after years of decline through a community-led restoration effort.
Since reopening in 1998, WHBPAC has grown into a year-round performing arts center serving more than 45,000 patrons annually through live performances, film, and education programming.
Summer lineup and information
WHBPAC’s summer season continues with concerts, comedy, film, and special events throughout the East End.
For tickets, programming, and upcoming performances, visit whbpac.org or call 631-288-2350.