Garde Arts Center

The Garde Arts Center is southeastern Connecticut's non-profit center for the performing arts and education. The Garde owns and operates the historic 1450-seat Garde Theatre, which first opened in 1926, and the 130-seat Oasis Room where it presents musicals, opera, orchestras, contemporary music, film, dance, and family events. Home of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra, the Garde hosts performances by regional arts organizations and provides educational programs for more than 12,000 young people. Under the leadership of Steve Sigel, executive director, since 1988, the Garde has become a major catalyst for the cultural and economic revitalization of New London.