Mark Taper Forum
Take your seats: the Mark Taper Forum is officially back, celebrating a reopening in September 2008 with The House of Blue Leaves. During its $30 million renovation over the last year, the iconic theater underwent an inner transformation in both design and technology. Crews hauled out ancient equipment, untangled old wires and literally raised the roof, updating the theatre for the 21st century. The result is a fresh, compelling look and a new attraction for Los Angeles visitors.
“These renovations will make the theater so much better – for our audiences and our artists and our backstage crew,” said Michael Ritchie, the Center Theatre Group's artistic director.
The intimacy and elegance of architect Welton Beckett’s original design remains, but the renovation undoubtedly launches the theatre into a new era. In addition to the vast history of Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize-winning productions such as Angels in America and The Kentucky Cycle, the theatre now has the technological capabilities to execute new performances with updates to the lighting and catwalk systems, a quieter and more efficient air conditioning unit, and better acoustics.
The new design elements also reflect the theatre’s growth, featuring a dramatic new lobby entrance that has nearly doubled in size. Artist Tony Duquette’s abalone wall stands front and center, highlighted by shimmering lights and accented with a stainless steel drink rail. Downstairs, a new lounge offers an energetic space for pre- and post-theatre conversation. Mirrored columns and a ribboned metal drop ceiling evoke a modern disco style, boldly evoking youthful energy.
For visitors, the new Mark Taper Forum is yet another addition to the renaissance Downtown LA has seen in the past few years. The Music Center, made up of the Mark Taper Forum, Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Walt Disney Concert Hall, has undoubtedly become a preeminent cultural institution of Los Angeles, providing an acclaimed arts program for LA visitors.
More importantly, it’s a well-publicized recognition that LA’s theatre scene is alive and thriving, and that the renovation not only serves as a relief to regular theatre-goers but also attracts a new, younger audience.
Don’t forget that the best way to experience the new changes is to catch a show during the 2008-2009 season.
