Local Group Explores Feasibility of Renovated Downtown Theater
On September 23rd, a newly established nonprofit organization closed on the purchase of the historic Wareham Opera House located in downtown Manhattan. The organization, Wareham Hall Inc, was formed in March of 2022 to explore the feasibility of purchasing, renovating, and programming the iconic theater as a modern, state-of-the-art performing arts venue.
The organization has engaged with theater planners, acousticians, arts management consultants, architects, and construction partners to evaluate the needs of the space and develop conceptual plans for further development. Additionally, the organization has collaborated with area performers, artists and arts enthusiasts, nonprofit organizations, university faculty, and show promoters to better understand the specific needs of the live music and performance arts communities.
The vision for the 400 to 800 person theater would involve a complete renovation to modernize the space in order to support multiple types of programming including live concerts, cinema, chamber music, dance, small-scale theatrical productions, and comedy.
“The Wareham is an important part of Manhattan’s history, and the prospect of rehabilitating this iconic building for modern-day usage is exciting for our region. A venue like we envision has the potential to be an economic driver, a tourism draw, a place to grow our local arts and culture scene, and a tremendous asset for our quality of place,” said Mary Vanier, a member of the Wareham Hall board of directors.
Other founding board members include Jackie Hartman Borck, Darren Dodge, Todd Holmberg, Bill Lansdowne, Blade Mages, Kevin Peirce, Tracy Robinson, Jeff Sackrider, Larie Schoap, and Wayne Sloan.
Availability of venue for public rental will decrease in 2023 to allow for the continued assessment of the space. Over the coming months, Wareham Hall will continue refining concepts for the venue while also garnering financial support.