Coalition for a Mid-Market Theater District Presentation
1. Vision for a Mid-Market Multiplex of Off-B’way Theaters Presented by : Coalition for a MiMa Theater District (CMMTD) c/o Bill Schwartz, 21 Columbus Ave., #233, SF94111 415-291-8655, billschwartz@idiom.com
2. “ Mid-Market Stages” **Hub of a New Theater District** **Catalyst for a Rejuvenated SF Theater Scene** **Catalyst for a Renewed Market St.**
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Editor's Notes
Welcome to this presentation of a Vision for the creation of a new theater district on San Francisco’s mid-Market Street. It has been prepared by CMMTD, the coalition for a mid-market theater district.
This new theater multiplex, we can it Mid-Market Stages for now, would be the hub of the new theater district. It would also be the catalyst for a rejuvenated theater scene in San Francisco And, the catalyst for a renewed mid-Market area. A triple benefit.
This is a 21st century approach. The co-location of several theaters is the key. We are envisioning 5 off-Broadway style theaters Housed in one complex or in a cluster.
This multiplex of theaters would be managed by one central non-profit entity. This management company would combine an artistic orientation with a strong business approach. The objective is to be self-sustaining…by having steady income, maximum space utilization, and by sharing certain costs and facilities among theater groups. The central would also encourage and facilitate artistic and business collaboration.
There is a great deal of power in a large multiplex. New facilities attract interest and attendance. Public perceptions are changed for the better. Audiences who come to see one theater company will learn of others. Audiences will attend spontaneously knowing there are several shows on at the same time in one location. We are concentrating the energy of our small to mid-sized theater scene into one location.
Mid-Market Street is the most accessible street in the Bay Area. The city will benefit from the increased economic activity of the new theater district. Already on mid-Market are 2 Broadway houses and a major music venue. Theater groups will be able to find inexpensive office space nearby. The new street will provide the key connection between the shopping area on the east and the civic center on the west. Soon, the street will see a dramatic upgrade.
This multiplex concept is not a new idea. There are several in NY and elsewhere. And, urban renewal has been shown to be stimulated with arts and culture facilities. We believe that demographics suggest that San Francisco can support a world-class theater scene. The multiplex could well be the Tipping Point to a safe and inviting street bursting with positive urban energy. The new theater district will act as the Change Agent for Market Street and for local theater.
The new theater district will benefit the theater companies that will reside there, but it will also buoy theaters all over the area. San Francisco would become a destination for lovers of theater. In order for our theater scene to flourish we need more mid-sized theaters. The new multiplex will provide that missing level. As our theater scene thrives, the acting pool will expand as will the number and quality of directors, designers, choreographers, musicians, etc. In fact, an improved theater scene will rub off on other cultural arts.
There are many theater groups in the city and in the region that will be prospects for taking up residence in the new facilities. … from well-established groups to new ones, from musical theater to improv to Shakespeare.
The new venues will allow for independent productions to be produced. Top theater groups outside the city will be able to move a hit show into the city for an extended run. And, the spaces would be available for many other uses, such as poetry slams, chamber music, standup comedy, and corporate events.
The new spaces being close to the Tenderloin and Soma would offer training internships for youngsters in theater-tech, such as sound, lights, costumes, and set design. The venue can be used for innovative rehabilitation programs that employ improvisation theater. The excellent accessibility of the venue would make it ideal for school children to attend Shakespearean plays, for example. And, student shows also could be presented in the venues.
Many cities around the country have used arts and culture for urban renewal.
A feasibility study is now being planned and 22 theater companies have endorsed such a study. We are moving forward in this effort and we welcome your interest and support.
In summary, a developer can gain tangible financial benefits while the city advances and generates tax revenues. Our cultural lanscape is enhanced as we become destination city for live theater. We will see a renaissance in theater in San Francisco. The Coalition for a mid-Market Theater District thanks you for your attention.