Hollywood Star's Donation Boosts Upstate NY Theater Renovations

Oscar-nominated actress Amanda Seyfried helps fund upgrades to Starr Cinema's concession stand.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A major renovation of the Starr Cinema, part of the Upstate Films non-profit theater group in Rhinebeck, New York, received a significant boost from a donation by Oscar-nominated actress Amanda Seyfried. Seyfried, who lives nearby and is a regular at the theater, offered to help fund the renovation of the cinema's concession stand after learning about the ongoing project.

Why it matters

The Starr Cinema is an important community hub in the Upstate New York region, providing a space for independent and art-house films. Seyfried's donation highlights the theater's significance and the growing community support it has received, especially during the pandemic era when many small theaters have struggled.

The details

The Starr Cinema renovation project includes a $420,000 remodel of the 42-seat small screening room, adding a state-of-the-art sound system, raked seating, and a larger screen. The cinema is also gaining a new fully accessible ADA restroom in the lobby. Seyfried's donation will specifically fund upgrades to the concession stand.

  • Seyfried met with Upstate Films Development Manager Kym Bradley-Rickard on January 23, 2026 during a screening of Seyfried's recent film.
  • The Starr Cinema renovation project is expected to be 85% complete by April 2026.

The players

Amanda Seyfried

An Oscar-nominated actress known for her roles in films like "Mean Girls" and "Mamma Mia". Seyfried is a regular at the Starr Cinema and lives in the nearby Ulster County.

Upstate Films

A non-profit organization that operates the Starr Cinema and other independent film theaters in the Upstate New York region.

Jason Silverman

The Co-Director of Upstate Films.

Kym Bradley-Rickard

The Development Manager at Upstate Films.

Sven and Barbara Huseby

Donors who underwrote a significant amount of the cost for the renovation of the Starr Cinema's small screening room, which will be named the Huseby Screening Room.

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What they’re saying

“Every time I pass this theater, because I go to Paper Trail a lot, you're always playing the coolest. What are you doing? You're doing everything right.”

— Amanda Seyfried

“It's cozy. We need to sit together and watch art. I know streaming definitely keeps you at home. It's a freezing cold night, and you're getting so much more out of being together than you are being home alone.”

— Amanda Seyfried

“It's pretty sexy here.”

— Amanda Seyfried

What’s next

The renovated Huseby Screening Room at the Starr Cinema is expected to be completed by April 2026.

The takeaway

Seyfried's donation to the Starr Cinema highlights the important role that independent and community-focused theaters play in bringing people together, even in an era dominated by streaming. The Starr Cinema's mission-driven approach and commitment to the local community have helped it thrive and secure support from patrons like Seyfried.