Ritz Theater Lobby

The last remaining theater of five that lined Broadway in the City of Newburgh, the Ritz Theater is known as the birthplace of the beloved sitcom, I Love Lucy. Many well-known performers have graced its stage over the years. Although we are working toward raising the funds to restore the actual theater, we have a lobby and that’s a start!

The Ritz Theater Lobby has been used for many different types of events, including cocktail parties, intimate concerts, festivals, training seminars, movie screenings, exercise classes, and recitals. With 1800 square feet of space, you can host a cocktail party for up to 200 people, plan a training seminar for up to 140 people or have a sit-down celebration for up to 90 people. Restrooms are adjacent to the lobby, and a baby-grand piano is available to rent.

Past and present hosts of events in the Ritz Theater Lobby include the Greater Newburgh YMCA, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh, Opera Company of the Highlands, the City of Newburgh, Orange County Arts Foundation, Newburgh Performing Arts Academy, Newburgh Enlarged City School District, ARCS, Catholic Charities, as well as numerous private individuals and organizations.

The Ritz is an asset to the City of Newburgh… the staff was truly professional and courteous… When I sent out my invitations, there were concerns… Once my guests arrived, their mouths dropped in delight as they walked through the reception… the start of many beautiful buildings restored back to the once breathtaking Newburgh.” —Lynn K.

For more information please contact June Henley at