The Community Performing Arts Theater

CBD-4

Observation

There is a theater currently planned for the Downtown.

Discussion

The block on North Street currently available between River Road and Lafayette is not a good site for such buildings as it is isolated from the commercial activity on Third Street, and would not share patrons with other retail entertainment venues on Third. Furthermore, this small block would result in buildings that are highly visible from all sides requiring proper finishes on all sides, an excessive expenditure.

The larger of the envisioned theaters should be a utilitarian “black box” (of concrete block or metal), best imbedded at the center of a block where it is invisible. It should be accessed through one of the existing shopfronts on Third Street. This would have three positive consequences: a considerably lower cost, the refurbishment of a currently abandoned building, and the delivery of patrons to Third Street in support of the retail. A suitable building as front to the large theater has been identified on the west side of Third Street between Laurel and Florida.

Recommendation

For the larger theater, secure a long-term option to purchase the indicated building on Third Street. Retain an architect to do a feasibility study (this has been done since the charrette). Engage in fund raising activity.

Responsibility

Plan Baton Rouge & Downtown Development District.

Project Status

(See OSCD-2)

The state has allocated $3 million in the capital outlay budget for community performing arts theaters in downtown Baton Rouge. Three parcels of land were purchased in 2000 by the State in the Auto Hotel block which not comprise the Art Block. Updated information can be obtained on the Schwartz Silver website (www.schwartzsilver.com - user name: pub; password: tigers). Baton Rouge Area Foundation has agreed to support the fundraising efforts of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge for the new theater. The Arts Council has conducted a feasibility study for fundraising. On February 13, 2001, the Arts Council announced that the children of the late Douglas Manship donated $2 million towards the building of a downtown performing arts center. Theater Project Consultants from Connecticut, who are internationally known for programming arts centers and theaters are working with the Arts Council on programming for the Auto Hotel. Webb Management is also working closely with Theater Project Consultants to determine details such as ticket prices and the number of seats necessary to fulfill community needs. They presented the results of their findings at the third town meeting on March 19, 2001 (a detailed report is available). The Doug Manship Sr. Performing Arts Theater will be built as part of the Art Block complex.

Implementation

Explanation of Terms

Product

New Theater

Responsibility

PBR & DDD

Implementing Agent

SCA

Feasibility Analysis

SCA

Initial Financing

SCA

Project Financing

Federal and State grants to supplement a local fund raising campaign

Timing