It’s been a big year for Lincoln Theater, as sesquicentennial years tend to be! The theater kicked off its 150th Anniversary celebration with cake and champagne and has been on the move ever since, raising funds, celebrating its history, and investing in its future.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, funds raised so far have already been put to work renovating the newly dedicated Fenniman Lobby, restoring the beloved Grand Staircase with new treads and risers, and updating the electronics in our digital marquees overlooking Main and Theater streets, among other important projects.

This year’s fundraising efforts continue to focus on preserving and enhancing this historic community gathering place. Upcoming projects include improvements to the annex hallway off the lobby,  upgrades to the concessions area, new flooring and counters in concessions and the bathrooms, continued assessments of our historic building, and development of a master plan to guide the future of Lincoln Theater for generations to come. And Lincoln Theater was honored to receive Maine Historic Foundation’s 1772 Preservation Grant toward replacing the fire alarm system throughouth the theater. There’s still plenty more to do. And there are lots of ways you can help!

One way to contribute to the 150th Anniversary fundraising efforts is by simply going to the theater! Through to the end of the year, we have programs lined up, designed to bring our community together while using the ticket revenue toward these important projects maintaining our beloved landmark.

The “Modern Classic” series, celebrating theater history with “beloved rewatchables,” is featuring two audience favorites: “The Princess Bride” playing on Aug. 27 and 28, and “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” playing on Aug. 28 and 29.

Then, on Thursday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m., join us for a very special screening of “Women Laughing,” the new documentary film from New Yorker cartoonist Liza Donnelly, who joined us during its development in 2024. The screening will be followed by a conversation and Q&A with Liza, hosted by Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Alex Gibney.

Looking ahead, “Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road” return to Lincoln Theater for a special fundraising concert live on-stage Sept. 19, and finally “Heatwave: The Linda Ronstadt Experience,” featuring Kelly Caufield (“The Bikinis," “Little Shop of Horrors") will take the stage in November. Covering Ronstadt’s amazing career, you will hear everything from  “When Will I Be Loved” to “You’re No Good," to "Blue Bayou." All of your favorite songs from this singular artist are featured in this fantastic concert.

Lincoln Theater has also set up a 150th Fundraiser donation page at www.LincolnTheater.org. And donors have an incredible opportunity to double their impact! Thanks to a generous friend of Lincoln Theater, donations made through Oct. 31, 2026 will be matched up to $50,000.

 We are grateful to be part of this incredible community that has kept this theater going for more than a century and a half. Let’s keep the doors open for another 150 years!

Lincoln Theater is located at 2 Theater St. in the heart of downtown Damariscotta. Tickets for all events will be available for purchase through the theater website. Any remaining tickets are available at the door. More information is available at info@LincolnTheater.org or 207-563-3424.