Given the financial climate, will the University complete the project?
Yes, the University is committed to completing the entire project. All facets of the renovation and construction are proceeding as planned.
How much is the total project cost?
The estimated total cost of the renovation and expansion project is $46.5 million.
Will the renovations be in keeping with the existing theatre?
Yes. As a cultural landmark and historic venue, the planned renovations have always been designed to improve the overall Theatre experience while maintaining its architectural integrity and grandeur.
Will there be improved handicap accessibility?
There will be additional ADA accessible entrances in the new building, as well as two elevators providing access to the Theatre at the mezzanine and balcony levels. In general, accessibility to the stage and seating areas will be greatly improved for our handicapped patrons.
Will the renovations improve the acoustics in Kodak Hall?
Yes. This has always been one of the primary goals of the project and a key reason for re-shaping the hall. The addition of the boxes on the side walls, and the addition of a rear wall at the orchestra level will serve to reflect more sound to the seats on the orchestra level of the hall.
How many seats are being removed?
Renovations inside Eastman Theatre include a reduction in the number of seats inside Kodak Hall. The removal of some 800 seats at the back and sides of the orchestra level will allow for a more expansive lobby. The hall will have 2,250 seats when completed.
Are the seats being replaced?
The following is a breakdown of the number of new seats as well as those seats that are being replaced or restored:
- 1680 new seats (854 orchestra level, 826 balcony level)
- 501 fully restored/renovated seats (333 mezzanine, 168 loge seats)
- 12 new boxes with new moveable seats (44 orchestra level, 54 mezzanine level)
Will there be box seats?
Yes, the plans include 12 new boxes on the orchestra and mezzanine levels.
Are the murals being preserved?
Yes, we are planning to fully restore the murals in the Theatre during the renovation project.
Is the chandelier remaining?
Certainly. The chandelier is a significant icon within the Theatre and an important part of the overall aesthetics and experience.
What is happening with the woodblock prints?
The woodblock prints in the Oval and Mezzanine Lobbies are being replaced with the last set of original prints available and will likely be relocated to the new connecting hallway for the Oval and new Atrium Lobbies.
Are there going to be additional lounge areas?
By removing seats from the back of the orchestra level, the Grand Orchestra Lobby will be expanded to accommodate five new lounges. (See Naming Opportunities)
Will there be any changes to the stage?
There will be no changes to the stage, since it was previously renovated in 2004.
Will the mezzanine and balcony levels be renovated as well?
Improvements to the mezzanine and balcony levels include renovated/restored lobbies and lounges and a connecting walkway to the new building, providing immediate access to elevators and restrooms.
Will there be more restrooms?
There will be new men’s and women’s restrooms on the first three levels of the new building, all of which are accessible from the Theatre.
Will the name of the Theatre remain the same?
Absolutely. The Eastman name is too important to the culture and history of the City of Rochester as well as the University.
What is the focus of the Hatch Recital Hall?
The recital hall has been designed for solo recitals and chamber music.
How many people in the community experience the Theatre in a year?
The Eastman Theatre and the adjoining Eastman School of Music creates a robust community venue for more than 700 concerts and events (over 90% are free and open to the public). Through this activity, over 200,000 people visit this Rochester landmark each year.
Will there be an opportunity to “name” a seat?
An official web-based Seat Campaign was launched in March 2009 and will be available on this web site until completion of the Theatre project. The Seat Campaign is an opportunity for all patrons to support the Theatre by “purchasing” a seat and being recognized with a naming plaque.
When will the project be completed and how will the construction impact the concert schedule?
Construction is scheduled to occur between July 2008 and Fall 2010. While the construction of the new building will occur throughout this period, the renovation of Kodak Hall in Eastman Theatre will occur during the summers of 2008 and 2009, in order to avoid any disruption of the concert schedule.
Are there floor plans available?
You may view floor plans for the renovation and expansion by clicking this link (Floor Plans).
Who should I contact about making a gift to this project?
If you would like to submit an online gift using our secure form, click the following link: Make a Gift Online
If you would prefer to mail in your gift payment, please send to:
University of Rochester
Gift and Donor Records
300 East River Road
P.O. Box 270032
Rochester, NY 14627
If you would like to speak with someone directly about making a gift to the Theatre Project, please contact:
Rob Gibson
Senior Associate Vice President
University Advancement
Phone: 585-275-7530
Email: rgibson@admin.rochester.edu
