Arena Stage introduces a major redesign, by architect Bing Thom. I like the idea that the back rows of "box" seats in the Fichandler will be dropped: you really can't see or hear anything back there.

I'm less sanguine about the new 220-seat Cradle, designed for nurturing experimental plays. D.C. has its fair share of new-play spaces already: DCAC, the Takoma Theater, the Church Street Theater, the new Warehouse Theatre. These spaces are part of their neighborhoods, and they're recycled from existing construction, which means they're inexpensive. While in the dedicated performing arts complexes, the Theatre Lab in the Kennedy Center hasn't had a new idea in more than ten years, and Arena's own Old Vat Room is usually dark. New-play spaces are funky and uncomfortable because new production companies can't afford more. I fear that economics won't support the new Cradle.

posted: 9:20:10 AM