Farmingdale’s next act? A downtown theater. Well, that’s the hope

Farmingdale Village is looking to bring a new live entertainment venue to its downtown — and state funding could help make it happen.

Village officials have submitted a proposal to build an 8,000-square-foot, 225-seat theater on a parking lot just south of South Front Street, near the Long Island Rail Road. The project would be funded in part through the village’s $4.5 million NY Forward award, along with a village-issued bond.

The idea rose to the top after months of community input.

“The local planning council met for eight months, had two public hearings, and it was unanimous that the theater was the number one proposal,” said Mayor Ralph Ekstrand.

Drawing from concepts in the village’s 2010 master plan, officials say the theater would serve as a flexible community space — hosting live performances, concerts, school programs and more.

The village has already received a letter of intent from an experienced theater operator who would base a troupe at the venue. Local dance studios are also expected to use the space for recitals, while seniors could benefit from discounted movie screenings, including a proposed weekly matinee series.

“We’re talking about everything from dance recitals to concerts to classic movies,” Ekstrand said.

Some residents have raised concerns about parking, as the project would eliminate roughly 40 spaces. But Ekstrand noted that more than 1,600 parking spots are available throughout the village.

If approved by the state — a decision expected within about a month — officials say the theater could become a new draw for downtown Farmingdale, bringing visitors who stay to dine, shop and explore the area.

“It’s about creating another reason for people to come here and spend time,” Ekstrand said.

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Top: Downtown Farmingdale as it appeared on Dec. 17, 2025. (Credit: GLI/Mike White, file)