The Kate – Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook, Connecticut

The Kate, named after the legendary Katharine Hepburn, sits in the heart of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, offering a perfect blend of history and entertainment. This intimate 284-seat theater brings world-class performances to the Connecticut shoreline while honoring one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actresses who called Old Saybrook home. You’ll discover an impressive variety of live music, comedy shows, theater productions, and children’s programs all year round in this charming cultural gem.

When you visit The Kate, you’re not just attending a show – you’re stepping into a piece of Connecticut’s rich cultural heritage. The performing arts center opened in 2009 in a beautifully restored historic town hall building on Main Street. Beyond enjoying the excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art technology, you can explore the Katharine Hepburn Museum housed within the same location, making it a must-visit destination for both entertainment seekers and film history buffs.

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Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, affectionately known as “The Kate,” is a cultural gem nestled in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. This historic building houses both a theater and museum dedicated to the legendary actress who called this area home.

At The Kate, you can enjoy a diverse range of performances including concerts, theater productions, and film screenings. The venue hosts everything from bluegrass and jazz to comedy shows and special events. Coming up, you can catch performances like “The Importance of Being Earnest,” Solas Celtic Folk Supergroup, and various singer-songwriters.

Don’t miss the Katharine Hepburn Museum located next to the theater lobby. You’ll discover a fascinating collection of Hepburn’s personal items including letters, photos, home movies, costumes, and other memorabilia that showcase her remarkable life and career. As Hepburn herself said, “Be yourself; it’s a tough act to follow.”

The Kate serves as more than just an entertainment venue. It aims to present diverse cultural and performing arts, provide educational opportunities, and preserve the legacy of America’s iconic actress. Their Summer Arts Day Camp is popular with families looking for creative experiences for their children.

Rating: 4.8 (690 reviews)
Location: 300 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Contact: (860) 510-0473
Website: Visit Website

History of The Kate

The Kate has a rich and fascinating history spanning over a century, transforming from a local community club to a prestigious cultural landmark that honors one of America’s most beloved actresses.

Founding and Purpose

The story of what would become The Kate began on December 5, 1905, when Joseph Cone—a printer, performer, poet, and musician—hosted a meeting at his home. The purpose? To form the Old Saybrook Musical and Dramatic Club. This community organization would later evolve into something much bigger.

The building at 300 Main Street has served multiple purposes throughout its history. Before becoming a cultural center, it functioned as a town hall and theater, standing as an important community gathering place in Old Saybrook.

The transformation into the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center happened in 2009. It was named to honor Katharine Hepburn, the legendary four-time Academy Award winner who called Old Saybrook home. The center’s mission became to celebrate arts and culture while preserving Hepburn’s legacy.

Significant Milestones

The renovation of the historic building preserved its character while creating a modern 250-seat performing arts venue.

Since opening in 2009, The Kate has established itself as a premier destination for arts and entertainment in Connecticut. The center hosts a wide range of performances including music, theater, and dance.

One notable achievement is the creation of “The Kate” television program. This public TV music series is recorded live at the center and broadcasts performances to a wider audience. It has helped extend the center’s reach beyond Old Saybrook.

The Kate also houses a free museum dedicated to Katharine Hepburn. Here, you can explore memorabilia that showcases her cultural impact and connection to Old Saybrook, giving you insight into her remarkable life and career.

Architectural Highlights

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center showcases stunning architectural elements that blend historic charm with modern functionality. The building’s design reflects its rich history while providing an intimate setting for performances.

Design and Structure

The Kate occupies a historic theater/town hall building on Main Street in Old Saybrook that dates back to 1911. After extensive renovations, the center now features a 285-seat theater with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.

The building maintains its classic early 20th-century façade while housing modern amenities inside. You’ll notice the perfect balance between preservation and functionality as you enter the theater space.

The intimate seating arrangement ensures there’s not a bad seat in the house. Every audience member enjoys excellent sightlines to the stage, creating a connection between performers and viewers.

The theater’s acoustics have been carefully engineered to enhance the experience of live performances.

Historic Features

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Kate preserves many original architectural details from its 1911 construction. The building served as both a theater and town hall in its early days, a dual purpose that shaped its distinctive design.

You’ll see beautiful historic woodwork throughout the venue, carefully restored during renovations. Original architectural elements blend seamlessly with modern additions.

The lobby area features historical photographs and memorabilia that connect the space to its past and to Katharine Hepburn herself.

Large windows allow natural light to flood into certain areas of the building, highlighting the craftsmanship of earlier eras.

When visiting, take time to appreciate the building’s exterior details that have been maintained over more than a century.

Cultural and Community Impact

The Kate has become a vital cultural hub that enriches Old Saybrook and surrounding communities. The center honors Katharine Hepburn’s legacy while providing diverse arts programming that brings people together in meaningful ways.

Local Engagement

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center serves as a gathering place for local residents and visitors alike. You’ll find this historic venue hosting community events that connect people of all ages throughout the year.

The Kate offers educational opportunities in the arts, fulfilling its mission to nurture creativity in the community. Local schools partner with the center for special programs that introduce students to performing arts.

When you visit, you might encounter workshops, lectures, and classes that welcome participants from across Connecticut. These programs help preserve arts education and cultural enrichment in the region.

The museum portion celebrates Old Saybrook’s most famous resident while creating a sense of local pride and identity.

Performance and Art Events

The Kate presents a diverse repertoire of cultural and performing arts events that draw audiences from near and far. You can enjoy everything from live music and theater to film screenings and dance performances in the intimate theater setting.

Since opening in 2009, the center has hosted countless memorable performances. The venue’s first band, Pure Prairie League, even returned to celebrate The Kate’s 10th anniversary.

The programming reflects Katharine Hepburn’s bold spirit and artistic excellence. You’ll find both established artists and emerging talents on stage throughout the year.

Special exhibitions featuring Hepburn memorabilia—including costumes, letters, and personal items—rotate regularly. These displays connect you directly to the legendary actress’s remarkable life and career.