WASHINGTON -- This weekend marks one of the biggest events to hit the D.C.-area theater scene in many a year, one that’s almost certain to spur much-needed redevelopment efforts in Southwest D.C. Today and tomorrow, the Arena Theater unveils its new Mead Center for the American Theater. Nearly three years in the making, this stunning new space, with its soaring, cantilevered roof and undulating glassy exterior, is the most significant and breathtaking piece of architecture the nation’s capital has seen in decades.
New Mead Center complex at night.
(Photo Nic Lehoux, courtesy Bing Thom,
architects.)
An innovative new complex built on the bones of the old Arena facility and actually incorporating gleaming, newly-renovated versions of its two main stages within a stunning glass showcase, the new center also adds a third theater space and a new gourmet restaurant complex along with a complete suite of offices, workshops, and rehearsal spaces for its thespians and its 100+ employees.
A preview performance of Arena’s opening production, the beloved classic American musical, Oklahoma!, debuted last night prior to beginning its official run next week. Today, the complex hosts a nonstop series of tours for the public as well as a series of short preview performances of its upcoming shows. And tomorrow, according to an arena publicity release, the Center will host a “black-tie opening gala” that “will feature an exclusive one-night-only performance by Tony Award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell and will pay tribute to our generous supporters and the Arena Stage community.”
Scheduled events will take place throughout the entire building, including the refurbished Fichandler Stage, the renovated Kreeger Theater—both of which, in an amazingly original stroke of architectural brilliance, survive intact within the new structure—as well as the new brand new Arlene and Robert Kogod Cradle, an astonishing, basketlike new performance space constructed for smaller plays, readings, and events.
Food and beverages will be available at the new Next Stage café operated by José Andrés Catering with Ridgewells. Foodies will remember him for creating some of DC’s most popular dining destinations including the popular Jaleo. Design Cuisine and Salamander Hospitality will provide outdoor food vending locations during the celebration.
For more news on this weekend’s events, click on Arena’s main website here. For an exclusive interior tour of the complex’s new insides, click here.
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