THREE RCSD HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATIONS TO RETURN TO WEST HERR AUDITORIUM THEATRE IN 2026

(Rochester, NY) – For the first time in several years, three high schools in the Rochester City School District (RCSD) will host their graduation ceremonies at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre. At the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year, graduating seniors from Edison Career and Technology High School, Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School and School of the Arts (SOTA) will walk across the stage for their commencements.

The Rochester Broadway Theatre League (RBTL) had to temporarily pause hosting graduations at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre due to ongoing construction as part of RBTL’s PROJECT RESTOURATION. Work included an overhaul of the back parking lot off College Avenue and the rear entrance and hallway leading to the West Herr Performing Arts Center lobby.

“School of the Arts is very excited to be returning to West Herr Performing Arts Center for Commencement 2026,” said SOTA Principal, Alan Tirre. “Keeping our ceremony in the Neighborhood of the Arts is important to us and having access to the new state-of-the-art facility will enhance our commencement performances to the level our graduating students deserve.”

Edison Career and Technology High School Principal Anthony Rodriguez said, “I am very excited to know our students will be able to walk across the stage at the West Herr Auditorium Theatre. I am a personal fan of the theater and excited for our students and staff to share the best stage in Rochester this upcoming graduation season.”

“We are thrilled to be returning to the West Herr Auditorium Theatre for our upcoming graduation ceremonies,” added Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School Principal Gary Reynolds. “The staff and service at this venue are truly second to none, and we are grateful for their continued partnership. We look forward to honoring the proud tradition of Joseph C. Wilson High School graduations in this distinguished setting once again.”

RBTL prides itself on providing not only arts and entertainment opportunities, but hosting live events, such as graduation ceremonies, for the Greater Rochester community. The organization is proud to once again offer its Theatre to three RCSD schools, so their graduating students have a memorable end to their high school careers.