Rose Center Theater Announces Major Management Changes

The decision was a surprise to the Friends of the Rose, its longtime management team.

A company photo of "Robin Hood & the White Arrow: the Holiday Feast of Stephen," currently running at the Rose Center Theater. The show is likely to be the last by the theater company in its current venue in Westminster. Photo courtesy of Friends of the Rose

---

The city of Westminster has decided to transform a city-owned venue, the Rose Center Theater, into a community cultural center. The transition is scheduled to begin after Dec. 31.

The Friends of the Rose, which has managed the venue for nearly two decades, made the announcement today on the Rose Theater’s website. “This was not a decision initiated by Friends of the Rose. It was a choice made by the Westminster City Council as part of their new vision for the building’s future use,” the statement said.

The city’s decision apparently took the theater’s management team by surprise, according to the statement. “We share your sadness. And we share your frustration that this transition will impact so many programs, performances, and long-standing community traditions. Our team will be reaching out directly to all affected organizations, and we will do everything in our power to support you through this unexpected change.”

The Rose Center Theater is part of the Westminster Rose Center. The complex includes multiple ballrooms and banquet facilities. It is the home of the Vietnamese American Philharmonic Orchestra, TNT Productions and the Westminster Chorale, and many touring Broadway productions, dance companies and opera troupes have appeared there since it opened on July 21, 2006.

In the statement, the Friends of the Rose said it planned to continue bringing arts events to the community, although those plans remain in the early stages.

“The Friends of the Rose has been actively reviewing all options for the future, and fully intends to continue providing access to the arts for our community. Whether through alternative venues, new partnerships, or future opportunities, we are committed to ensuring that the creativity, connection, and cultural vibrancy built here will continue. We will share updates as the City provides more information about their transition timeline.”

The house and stage at the Rose Center Theater. Photo courtesy of the Friends of the Rose