Why the Harman Center is important for Washington
“The Shakespeare Theatre Company is poised to fulfill its destiny as America
's foremost classical theatre, and, in creating the Harman Center for the Arts,
it will further enrich the culture and community of Washington and the nation.”-
Landon Butler, Chairman, Board of Trustees
An extraordinary venue for distinguished local presenters and companies. Michael
Kahn, Artistic Director of the Harman Center for the Arts, envisions a dynamic
hub of activity that showcases the world-renowned Shakespeare Theatre Company
along with such outstanding local arts organizations as the Washington Performing
Arts Society, the Washington Ballet, Liz Lerman Dance Exchange, Dance Place
, the Moving Forward Dance Company, the Washington Bach Consort and the PEN/Faulkner
Foundation.
The centerpiece of a vibrant, living downtown. The Harman
Center is a cornerstone of Washington Mayor Anthony Williams' vision of a truly
vibrant downtown, one that will serve local performing arts groups, community
programs and a growing, diverse audience for cultural events. The economic
impact of the Harman Center on the District of Columbia is likely to exceed
$375 million in its first 10 years. In recognition of this substantial impact,
the Mayor and City Council have made a landmark $20 million investment in the
project.
An enhancement to Washington 's position as a premier destination
city for arts patrons. The addition of the Harman Center to Washington
's performing arts establishment will significantly extend Washington 's
appeal as a destination for theatre lovers everywhere. Visitors to the nation's
capital will be able, in a single weekend, to experience three or four top-notch
productions, made more enjoyable by the city's many fine hotels and world-class
restaurants.
An avant-garde base for outstanding programs in arts education. Showcasing
such outstanding education programs as the Shakespeare Theatre Company's Text
Alive!, ShakesPEERS, and SHAKESPEARIENCE, the Harman Center 's education programming
will have the potential to reach every D.C. public high school student. A robust
subsidized ticket program will make available 20,000 tickets at dramatically
reduced rates, thereby ensuring broad access to programs. Additionally, a sophisticated
technological infrastructure will support expansive distance-learning opportunities
for teachers and students in D.C. and nationwide.
A world-class home for America 's premier classical theatre company. Residence
at the new Harman Center for the Arts will enable the Shakespeare Theatre Company
to achieve its vision of becoming America 's pre-eminent classical theatre.
The expanded venue will allow the Company to broaden its mainstage offerings,
attract a greater number of the world's most esteemed actors and directors,
and maintain its steadfast commitment to community access.
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