Near West Theatre has always found its identity in being inclusive. But the community theater's home for 37 years on the third floor of St. Patrick's Club Building in Ohio City lacked an elevator. So unless disabled people were carried up three flights of stairs, they were deterred from seeing shows and participating in productions.
Now thanks to a new 24,465-square-foot building in the Gordon Square Arts District, Near West is fully accessible with wheelchair ramps and an elevator. "It allows us to welcome a whole other population of people in its physical accessibility," says artistic director Bob Navis Jr. "Diversity of all kinds is essential to who we are." A vibrant mural also makes it more visible, and a super energy-efficient design features solar panels and extra-thick walls.
A free open house Feb. 28 showcases the building and its main theater, which features a main stage and a circular, moveable stage. There's also a loft with balcony seating and a sound booth as well as a lower level that includes concessions and a bohemian-style cafe where music and poetry will be performed.
More space also means more shows. This season features Shrek the Musical April 24 to May 17 and Hair July 17 to Aug. 9. Shrek will include eight to nine scene changes utilizing the main stage and the thrust, the area in front of the curtain. "Part of the reason we chose [Shrek was] because it gives the opportunity to show everything you've got," says Navis.
New Year, New Theater
$7.3
Donations for the project in millions
250-300
Costume pieces in Shrek for 45 characters
275
Seats in the main theater, with 25 to 40 in the loft
25
New fairy tale characters created for Shrek
13
Actors in the first Near West Theatre production in 1978
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