Local Theatre Companies Break Ground with 12th Avenue Arts Today

"There is a shortage of performance space in Seattle. As a young company without a permanent home, we have found ourselves spending more and more time searching for space and less time working on our programming," said New Century Theatre managing director Jamie Herlich. "It's a challenge to find space suitable for the level of production we do (that has enough power and lighting) and that is affordable and available. 12th Avenue Arts is a dream as it will provide a permanent performance home for all three companies, will be equipped with the most current and capable equipment and is located in the heart of a thriving arts scene. We are honored to have the opportunity to steward this amazing community asset." The three companies have created Black Box Ops LLC, a new nonprofit organization, which will manage the day-to-day operations of the two theatre spaces. Black Box Ops will be hiring a small staff, including a Facilities Manager, to run the operation.

The groundbreaking will take place today, February 21 at 12:30pm in the lobby of
Velocity Dance Theatre. Confirmed speakers include Mayor McGinn. The public is invited to attend.