The Westcott Theater in Syracuse continues to face an uncertain future as city officials consider revoking its special use permit. This decision comes after a series of closures for safety concerns over the past year.
The Syracuse Common Council held a public hearing on September 9 where residents, police officers, and theater supporters shared their opinions on the fate of the venue.
City officials and police raised concerns about recent incidents involving violence, crowd control, and alleged permit violations. One of the most notable issues raised was a shooting event that took place in May 2025, as well as a double stabbing event that took place last month. Westcott owner Dan Mastronardi denied the stabbing event took place within the theater.
Supporters of the venue showed up to the hearing in “#SaveWestcottTheater” T-Shirts. Most speakers at the hearing were in support of the venue, citing not only its importance to the local music community, but how the venue is an integral part of the infrastructure to the city.
Dan Mastronardi argued that the venue deserve the chance to address its issues, challenging the city’s assessment of the venue.
“The Westcott is not always being treated fairly. At times, we have seen several different levels of scrutiny depending on an event, a promoter, or the audience.”
– Dan Mastronardi
The Council was expected to vote September 14 on whether to revoke the permit, but lawmakers delayed the decision. The matter was instead referred to committee with other discussion scheduled for September 21. The Westcott Theater remains open while the process continues.
For Syracuse’s music community, the outcome could have significant impact. The Westcott Theater has operated for nearly two decades and serves as one of the city’s established mid-sized venues for touring and local artists. For now, its future still remains up in the air.
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