Our Goal

To establish a cultural arts center on Chincoteague Island to share film, performing arts, education programs, and other entertainment with our community and visitors.

Many communities have reclaimed closed or failing movie theaters and converted these structures into cultural arts centers that draw visitors and enhance the local economy. The Island Theater provides such an opportunity for Chincoteague.

The plan is to open the theater in mid-May to show movies on a year round basis for both residents and visitors. Our goal is to expand the programming to include live theater, concerts, children’s and educational programs, community activities and more.

Thanks to wide community support, we have raised over $125K to cover the down payment for the building purchase. Now we are seeking both funding and volunteers to help repair, restore and renovate the building to make it a true Island gem.

How You Can Help

• With financial support
  • CIAO needs additional funds to support the immediate repairs and renovations needed to improve the look and comfort of the theater, upgrade the projection equipment and restore the stage.
• Volunteer with CIAO
  • CIAO needs all types of volunteers to make the project a success. We are in immediate need of people who can help paint and clean the theater as well as volunteers with contracting skills who can help with repairs.
  • We also need volunteers who can help with operational tasks such as selling tickets or concessions as well as volunteers who can help with marketing and fund-raising projects.

If you can help with any of these tasks, please contact CIAO at [email protected] or stop by Sundial Books across from the theater.

Contributions should be mailed to: CIAO, P.O. Box 1217, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336

CAIO is a nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.