(ROCHESTER, NY) - Today, Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) announced $201,000 in state capital funding he secured to fund renovations at The Little Theatre.

“The Little is a community cornerstone, beloved by Rochesterians for showing award winning films in the heart of downtown Rochester,” said Senator Jeremy Cooney. “As the federal government continues to de-prioritize supporting the arts, it’s important for New York State and community members to come together to support institutions like ‘The Little.’ I’m proud to have delivered these funds and help ensure they will continue to serve as a gathering place for our community for years to come.”

"Senator Cooney has been a friend of The Little for years, and we are so grateful for his continued support,” said The Little Theatre Executive Director, Ayette Jordan. “The resources he has designated for us are making a huge difference for our critical facilities needs, and I appreciate that he wants to help maintain The Little for our community right now, and for future generations to come."

Funding will specifically go towards upgrades in theatres 3 and 4 including 276 new theatre chairs (which had not been replaced since the 1990’s), new carpeting, and wall coverings, and renovations to the bathrooms to make them more accessible and ADA compliant. This part of the project will begin in 2026.

Finally, this funding will cover costs associated with the replacement of windows outside the front of the theater that were vandalized in July of last year. The grant allowed The Little to begin the project faster than anticipated and get clearance from the Preservation League of NYS. The windows are expected to be completed by January 2026. 

The Little Theatre is the premier cultural center for the presentation of critically acclaimed independent, classic, and foreign films, visual arts, and live music for the greater Rochester community. Through artistic and educational events, The Little Theatre provides film makers, musicians, and artists a place to share and discuss their works and visions with curious and diverse audiences.

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