WADSWORTH SQUARE FOUNDATION
Wadsworth Square Commons is an ambitious arts and entertainment revitalization project that is transforming the historic Central Intermediate School campus in downtown Wadsworth into a vibrant cultural destination. Spearheaded by the Wadsworth Square Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the project is focused on preserving and reimagining the 100+ year-old building as a multi-use complex that includes a state-of-the-art performance venue, event space, professional offices, and more.
At the heart of the initiative is the transformation of the O.J. Work Auditorium into a premier 900-seat performance space slated to open as the Celestia Theater, named after early Wadsworth resident, Laura Celestia Rockefeller, the wife of John D. Rockefeller. (To learn more about her, visit the Celestia Theater page.)
The revitalized theater features modern sound and lighting technology, upgraded interior finishes, and amenities like the Flame Backstage Grille & Bar for pre-show dining. The theater will host a dynamic range of programming—from national touring acts and local performances to dance, theater, festivals, and community events—creating a cultural cornerstone for the region.
Whether you’re here to work, stay, or play—you’ll find your place at Wadsworth Square Commons.
A key element driving the project’s momentum is the application for a Revitalization District in downtown Wadsworth which will unlock up to 15 new D-5 liquor licenses, enabling new restaurants, bars, and venues to open within the area. Local leaders have championed the effort, recognizing its potential to boost economic development and attract new life to the downtown and “Match District” areas.
Beyond the theater, the Wadsworth Square Commons complex will adaptively reuse the rest of the school building for studio apartments, office space, Airbnb-type theater suites, and retail locations. The school’s former cafeteria will be transformed into a flexible event center for business events, luncheons, local markets, and as an additional performance space for smaller acts and dinner theater—expanding the community’s options for gathering and celebration year-round.
As the organization leading the charge, the Wadsworth Square Foundation is deeply committed to ensuring the project benefits the entire community. As a nonprofit, the foundation’s mission is rooted in preservation, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement. With a phased rollout planned and overwhelming community support already in place, Wadsworth Square promises to not only preserve a treasured building—but to reignite the soul of downtown Wadsworth for generations to come.