The Southampton Playhouse, located at 43 Hill Street in Southampton, has quickly reestablished itself as one of the East End’s most vibrant cultural spaces. After an extensive renovation and a reimagining of its mission, the beloved historic theater is once again bringing people together through film, conversation, and community.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Maria A. Ruiz Botsacos and Artistic Director Eric Kohn, the Playhouse has evolved into a dynamic hybrid of state-of-the-art cinema and community arts hub—offering everything from IMAX blockbusters and 35mm classics to live performances, themed series, and exclusive talks with filmmakers.
Maria and Eric shared how the Playhouse has transformed since reopening, how the community has responded, and what audiences can look forward to as they continue shaping a modern experience for movies and culture on the East End.
Can you share the mission of the Southampton Playhouse and how it has continued to evolve since reopening?
Maria & Eric: The Playhouse has been serving moviegoers in various forms for nearly a century, and we are committed to keeping that tradition alive by introducing the joy of the theatrical experience to everyone across the East End of Long Island. At the same time, we are more than a movie theater as we seek to create a hub where community and culture interact in unique and dynamic ways, from performances and conversations to educational initiatives and more. We are seeing a lot of enthusiasm for the eclectic nature of our programming, which is at once state-of-the-art and nostalgic; that’s a balance we plan to ramp up as we continue to celebrate film history as well as its role in the present moment.
How has the Playhouse grown or changed since completing the renovations and reopening under the new name?
Eric: We opened in February with two of our four screens. Since then, we have opened up theaters 3—where we can screen 35mm film, host intimate conversations, and private events—and theater 4, our flex space, which has host parties and live performances in addition to functioning as a 150-seat screening room. We’ve made the most of these opportunities with a constant stream of live guests, many of whom appear on our weekly podcast Movie People, and a diverse array of events in theater 4. I was particularly thrilled to see such a healthy turnout for our first silent film presentation, Nosferatu, with a modern live score in theater 4.
What has the community response been like since the relaunch?
Maria & Eric: It’s been very inspiring—so many people have fond memories of this theater, but they’re excited to learn that we have grown beyond our roots and can now program more directly to the range of sensibilities across the region. I’m also heartened by the local filmmaker interest in the Playhouse and the resources we can bring to help elevate their work.
Can you describe what sets the Playhouse experience apart today?
Maria & Eric: We can be local and national at the same time. We serve a small and passionate community invested in our success. At the same time, we can leverage our incredible resources to celebrating movies and related art forms with high-profile guests and opportunities that can resonate far beyond the East End.
How has the IMAX partnership enhanced what you’re able to offer audiences on the East End?
Maria & Eric: There is simply no other moviegoing experience as awe-inspiring as the IMAX screen. We aren’t blind to the fact that everyone has a lot of viewing options at home, but nothing can compete with a floor-to-ceiling screen of this caliber. It’s been amazing to see audiences flock to big blockbusters and documentaries alike that work so well in the IMAX format. Over the summer, we saw constant crowds for IMAX hits like F1 and Mission Impossible, but we also received healthy audiences for rock concert docs like Becoming Led Zeppelin. You can expect to see that balance continue with our upcoming programming.
What kinds of programming can guests expect this season—from films to live events or special screenings?
Maria & Eric: We’re aiming for one significant program per month. In September, we celebrated the legacy of space movies with everything from Apollo 13 on IMAX to Contact with an accompanying conversation on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. October was our Horror on Hill Street series. In November, we explored the rich history of filmmaking on Long Island with classics like Grey Gardens as well as the future prospects in the area among a new generation of talent with a short film program. December will naturally highlight holiday movies, but we’re bringing our usual eclectic twist to the program, as we’re spotlighting everything from The Shop Around the Corner to The Shining and Elf. Each month, you will see new themes with live events that blend the past and present of moviegoing into the same lively combo.
Are there any upcoming shows, performances, or collaborations you’re especially excited about?
Maria & Eric: I’m really excited to continue building out our 35mm screening plan by drawing from the list of films selected by Martin Scorsese and his daughter Francesca. There is nothing like watching a venerated classic on 35mm and being transported to the past through the actual materials it was originally projected on. That time-traveling opportunity will continue to grow and deepen at our theater.
What do you think makes the Southampton Playhouse such an important cultural hub for the community?
Maria & Eric: There is no barrier for access with a movie theater. This is a cultural activity that everyone can enjoy, which means that everyone is welcome, and this ethos is a core part of our identity.
How can local residents and visitors get more involved or support the Playhouse’s continued success?
Maria & Eric: Come see some movies! But also subscribe to our newsletter, the Playhouse Post, to learn more about our programming and start a dialogue with us. We think of this community as a two-way street, and love hearing from folks about what they’d like to see happen at the Playhouse.
What’s been the most rewarding part of seeing the Playhouse come back to life after its transformation?
Maria & Eric: Watching movies with packed houses and discussing them with audiences afterward. Movies are portals to conversations, and it’s been thrilling to see them happen here one day at a time.
What are your goals or hopes for the Playhouse moving forward?
Eric: As I mentioned earlier, we want to be local and national at the same time. We are devoted to ensuring that the Playhouse can inspire a new generation of moviegoers as well as filmmakers so that we can continue to provide a vibrant support system for this medium—and the community around.
Is there anything else you’d like readers to know about what’s happening at the Southampton Playhouse?
Maria & Eric: Our lounge is always open during normal business hours. If you see a movie, don’t rush out the door. Consider sitting down, having a drink, and talking through what you just saw. Cinema should inspire conversation.
To learn more about Southampton Playhouse, click here.
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