March 19,
2007
State grant jump-starts Eastman renovations
An $8 million commitment from New York State will make
it possible for the Eastman School to move forward on the second phase of
renovations at the historic Eastman Theatre. The project, which
includes revamped seating, improved access for people with disabilities, an
expanded lobby, a new gift shop and cafe, and additional recording and
rehearsal space for faculty and students, is expected to cost $20 million.
Construction is slated to begin in summer 2008.
“The University, the Eastman School, and the
community are deeply grateful for this financial commitment on the part of
New York State toward the Eastman Theatre renovation,” says President
Seligman. “This funding would not have been possible without the
support and commitment from Assemblyman Joseph Morelle and Assemblyman
David Gantt. Thanks to their efforts, along with those of
Assemblywoman Susan John, Assemblyman David Koon, and the leadership of
Speaker Sheldon Silver, we are strengthening one of Rochester’s
greatest cultural jewels for the 21st century.”
The theater will retain its 1920s elegance while
adding state-of-the-art improvements in acoustics and more comfortable
public gathering spaces. The renovations also will enhance the theater and
provide more performance and teaching space for faculty and students. (See
an artist’s rendering of the theatre below.)
“While the Eastman School is world
renowned, one of the principal tenets of our mission is a commitment to
community engagement,” says Jamal Rossi, interim dean of the school.
“We believe that the improved amenities and acoustics will help
ensure a vibrant future for classical music in Rochester for generations to
come.”
| Next story |
