NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WJAR) — The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford re-opened its doors Friday after closing back in 2023 for a $37 million dollar renovation project.

"It was a very intricate process," said the Center's Vice President of Strategic Advancement Nicole Merusi.

Changes to the 103-year-old theater were made with the intention of honoring its rich history.

"It has really a lot of memories, attached to this building, really deeply felt in the community," said Merusi. "So it was important and required that we do honor the legacy and the history."

• MORE NEWS: Hit-and-run involving husband and wife in Cranston

The Zeiterion's upgraded auditorium came alongside accessibility improvements and new performance and classroom spaces, like a speakeasy and dance studio.

The building closed in 2023 and the 33,000 square foot construction project broke ground in June 2024.

The grand reopening celebration will take place on Jan. 17.

The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra will perform at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.