After a $10 million renovation of its four buildings at the corner of Library and Division, the Civic Theatre is expected to completely reopen in September 2006. Restoration of the historic Majestic Theatre, originally built in 1903, is the centerpiece of the highly-anticipated project.
The extensive rehabilitation will transform both the interior and exterior of the 70,000 square foot theatre. Workers will add a new, two-story atrium at the Library Street entrance and triple the size of the existing lobby. They will also add a new pedestrian entry and sidewalks improvements along Division Avenue, a move expected to stimulate activity and interest along an essentially lifeless stretch of one downtown’s main thoroughfares.
Additional work includes improved electric service, a modern elevator, new seating, an expanded balcony, as well as a refurbished box office, coat check, and concession area. Financial support from Fred and Lena Meijer and the Grand Action Committee, a nonprofit group of community leaders who invest in urban revitalization, is funding the rehabilitation.
Source: Bruce Tinker, Executive & Artistic Director, Civic Theatre
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