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The
WCPA plans to fully renovate and restore the facility at 2-16 Southbridge
Street into a 2300-seat performing arts center capable of presenting
a wide variety of artistic talent. Restoration will focus on building
code upgrades and replacement of mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems,
as well as restoration of the stage, storage, shop and studio spaces.
The
major renovations include:
- Removing earlier cinema alterations and reconfiguring seating arrangements;
- Restoring
the stage and proscenium wall;
- Installing elevators for access to all
lobby, stage and back-of-house areas;
- Installing a new orchestra pit,
workrooms, access and loading areas;
- Upgrading mechanical systems and
installing state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems;
- Upgrading building
code requirements: exits and access;
- Replacing the roof and new insulation
for energy efficiencies;
- Restoration of the historic lobby area and
re-opening of the 2nd floor mezzanine; and
- Construction of a new, glass
pavilion lobby overlooking Federal Square
The Proscenium will be reconstructed, and the curved ceiling in front
of the proscenium (demolished in 1968) will be rebuilt using original
drawings to recreate the correct arch. The central chandelier at the
auditorium ceiling and three chandeliers in the 1926 lobby will be repaired,
rewired and reinstalled. Monochromatic paint colors currently found in
the theatre will be repainted using appropriate contrasting paint colors
to highlight the extensive original ornament. The 1904 terra cotta façade
that was covered in 1968 with a brick wall will be uncovered, and the
original fabric, including a garland arch, spandrels above and below
the arched window, will be repaired and exposed. The missing columns
framing the arch will be reproduced based on early photographs.
The scale and technology of touring Broadway shows has changed significantly
over the past 37 years, since the theatre hosted its last live performance.
In order to accommodate today’s performances, the original stage
house will be increased from 28’ to 40’ in depth, and a small
addition to the building to the left of the stage will provide necessary
dressing room facilities.
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