Theatre is art come alive; a place where one human being meets another. It is a communal experience between actors and audience. At TAP, theatre is not only art come alive; it is also art at its most intimate. A patron walks into Third Avenue Playhouse seeking that most human of experiences – a continuation of the bond that has existed for thousands of years. That’s Third Avenue Playhouse – professional theatre… up close and personal.
At a time when entertainment choices have become more confused and diffuse than ever, live theatre is an opportunity to return to what has long been at the heart of the world’s cultures. In 2012, the creation of the 84-seat “black box” Studio Theatre removed the distance between the actor and the audience, creating an immersive experience.The proximity of actor to audience embeds the audience into the performance, compelling them to focus on the actors and the story being told.
Yet for as successful as TAP has been, the facility has serious challenges that can limit the quality of the productions.
The existing stage doesn’t have wings or cross-over space, which typically hide elements of the show from the audience. Without this ability, the audience is often distracted. Oftentimes, directors are unable to produce certain shows due to the limitations of the stage.
The seating at TAP is 60 years old, uncomfortable and creaky. The restrooms are inadequate and poorly located on the second floor. The lobby gallery is too small to accommodate intermission and many of the public spaces are completely without heating or air conditioning.
The REIMAGINE Campaign will transform and improve the public and performance spaces to improve and enhance the already intensely intimate experience offered at TAP.
