In spring 2005, Roundabout
inaugurates its most intimate
venue,the Black Box Theatre.

by John Istel

Most theatre artists would guess that black box theatres were invented in the late 1950s or 1960s. After all, that's when the off-off Broadway explosion brought productions to all manner of loft, warehouse, and storefront. However, ask architect Bob Ascione, who has overseen Roundabout theatre renovations for 20 years, and he takes the long view. “I'd go back as far as the Roman Empire,” he chuckles. “I did my thesis on building theatres for my degree at Pratt. I found out that early Roman builders, basically for acoustical purposes, created rectangular spaces with flat ceilings.”

Essentially, that's what a black box theatre is: think of a giant shoebox, painted black and trimmed with light and seats. Put capital letters on it, and that's what Roundabout is readying to open early next year: the Black Box Theatre.

By definition, it is a neutral environment. Its walls are painted black so each theatre production and design team can transform the space utterly in their own ways to suit the needs of each show. There is no raised stage or even designated “acting” area. The audience's seats are not fixed either. The chairs, in fact, can be clipped together and moved into any formation. “It had to have optimum flexibility—that was the goal,” says Ascione. “Often, they'll do black box theatres oriented to different stage configurations—but we can do anything.” That's why black box theatres are perfect for workshops, rehearsals, readings, and experimental productions. They're incubators, a tabula rasa—or blank slate—onto which can be written each new testament to theatre artists' imaginations.

Roundabout's plans are still hatching, but the company wanted a place that could provide two important components of the theatre's mission: to develop new plays; and nurture new theatre artists and theatre students. Director of Education Arlene Jordan, for one, is excited about the facility. “What a thrilling opportunity to have use of a black box off-Broadway. The possibilities for seminars, workshops, and performances will add an exciting dimension to our work in the schools.” Whatever the need, Ascione insists it will be covered. “This space will be completely outfitted technologically. You can have a rehearsal or class in it, but it will also be possible to do full productions.”

The Black Box Theatre space during initial renovations of the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre in late 2003

This new addition to Roundabout's facilities lies 42 feet below 46th Street, on the first sub-cellar level of the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre, almost directly beneath the Laura Pels Theatre. The entire level is being renovated to be self-contained; in other words, the Black Box Theatre will have its own dressing rooms, its own brand new bathroom facilities for both actors and audiences, and a lobby and bar area with a concession stand. The theatre itself is just about 1,600 square feet and seats up to 74 people.

The plan is to open the Black Box Theatre in spring of 2005. Originally planned to be completed at the same time as the Laura Pels Theatre, the Black Box was put on temporary hold due to fundraising needs. “Excavation is very complex,” asserts Ascione, “and we had to deal with major issues including a river running through the original subcellar area.” Now, thanks to the expert work of Roundabout's architectural team, the space is warm, dry, and ready for the final phase of construction. “We're working now to secure funding to cover the completion of this fantastic new educational space – one that serves our mission in an exciting new way,” notes Executive Director, Julia C. Levy, who also oversees the theatre's educational efforts. “It's a great opportunity for donors interested in Roundabout's education program to get involved with a project that will have a tremendous impact on our work with students, teachers and audiences.”

Some longtime Roundabout subscribers may experience a sense of déjà vu: though significantly larger and better equipped, the Black Box is not unlike the 26th Street Theatre, the former Roundabout home to small-cast classics built underneath a supermarket. The intimate proximity of the performers to the audience made the experiences enthralling and enlightening. With the opening of the new Black Box Theatre, expect enlightening to strike twice.

There are many ways to have a lasting impact on this project, including several naming opportunities – even the Black Box Theatre itself. If you are interested in becoming more involved and providing support,
please call Julia Levy at (212) 719-9393.

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