Overview

Located in an already burgeoning cultural hub of the city, the theatre was designed by the renowned theatre architectural firm of Martinez/Johnson.  The structure itself is a work of art.  Its soaring atrium lobbies are encased with glass and steel, opening the interiors to natural light and providing a dramatic prologue to the entertainment experience. The stunning public spaces can also be used for gala social events, corporate rentals and special events – important income sources for any performing arts center.

The first phase of the facility is a 1500-seat auditorium distinguished by a proscenium stage with an 85’ fly loft, an orchestra pit and a sprung dance floor and fitted with state-of-the art audiovisual, sound and lighting.  The combination opens up endless presentation possibilities – orchestral, drama, Broadway, dance, opera, country, folk, pop, jazz, rap – truly a world of entertainment. A multi-purpose design sets the theatre apart from others in the state,  and the acoustics of the room are adaptable to suit any entertainment genre.  Included as well in this first phase is a 44,000 sq. ft. adjacent space that can serve a number of purposes — a visitors center, rehearsal space, administrative offices, rental space, a gallery.

The second phase  includes a 250-seat theatre one level below the main stage, with an equal amount of technical sophistication for more intimate presentations – drama, a jazz combo, an evening of comedy, rising stars…  On the same level is a black box theatre – a square black room with a flat floor that can be configured in an infinite variety of ways with the use of movable chairs and modular set pieces.  Most often, a black box is reserved for experimental work, but its use is limited only by the imagination of the artists.

A patron’s lounge, several rehearsal rooms, multiple dressing rooms, and offices are included in the structure as well as a recording studio.  The theatre is outfitted with satellite and cable, enabling live transmission or taping of performances from the theatre, or, for instance, reception of a grand opera from the Met.