03/19/2026
As many now know the Friends of the State Theatre has filed for an injunction to stop the demolition of the State Theatre. The Court's issued a cease and desist order to the Town and the Owner which has been ignored. FoST tried a number of times to work with the Town, with no response, leaving us no other choice but to take legal action.
Addressing recent public comments about my involvement with the State Theatre project and Friends of the State Theatre because several statements made are inaccurate and misleading.
Claims that this effort is about personal gain or seeking a “handout” are false. This is a community-focused redevelopment initiative centered on historic preservation, economic revitalization, and long-term investment in downtown Stoughton. Friends of the State Theatre has already committed significant private resources—over $100,000—to stabilize the building and remediate hazardous conditions.
Any potential public funding referenced has been discussed only within the framework of established, transparent economic development programs that are designed to benefit the community as a whole. Suggesting that these efforts are improper or self-serving is a misrepresentation of the facts.
Public debate about whether the theatre should be preserved or demolished is entirely appropriate. However, spreading inaccurate or misleading information about this project or my role in it undermines a productive and fact-based discussion.
I stand by the work FoST has completed to date and the vision for responsible redevelopment. I remain available to provide accurate information and welcome any good-faith conversation grounded in facts.
— John Stagnone
Friends of the State Theatre
