Salve Regina University and the International Tennis Hall of Fame have completed a series of upgrades to the Casino Theatre, revitalizing the 144-year-old venue with improved sound, lighting and technology systems.
The improvements were funded by $650,000 in gifts from the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust and the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, along with $60,000 from Salve Regina, for a total investment of $710,000. The most recent renovations were completed this past winter.
Updates to the theater include state-of-the-art surround sound speakers, a new mixing board, LED stage lighting, 16 wireless microphones and a new audio/visual infrastructure. Safety improvements were also made to stairs and stages.
Built as a ballroom on the Newport Casino campus in 1881, the Casino Theatre hosts Salve’s music, theater and dance performances, as well as rentals for other arts and cultural events. During the summer, it serves as a designated press space for the Hall of Fame’s Induction Celebration and Hall of Fame Open tournament.
“As stewards of a historical campus we are incredibly grateful for community partners who help us preserve historic gems like the Casino Theatre while also embracing innovation,” Salve President Kelli J. Armstrong said.
A portion of the charitable gifts was also designated to fund a dedicated theater manager. Ashleigh DeAmicis, a Salve theatre arts alumna and former Casino Theatre box office manager, stepped into the role in October 2025.
“The Casino Theatre is more than just a building; it is a cornerstone of the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s legacy and mission,” said Hall of Fame CEO Dan Faber. “Our partnership with Salve ensures this historic stage remains a vibrant cultural heart for our students, fans, and the entire Newport community.”
The Hall of Fame has also purchased a new film screen for the theater, which is expected to be installed later this spring. Future improvements are planned for the green room, orchestra pit and additional lighting.
Those interested in booking the theater can contact Salve’s Office of University Events and Conference Services at conferences.events@salve.edu.
