|
Story by Audrey Engdahl
The Takoma Theatre Arts Project began last
February when Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Rebecca Smallwood,
and fellow residents of Takoma D.C. undertook the mission
to revitalize and operate the long-disused Historic Takoma
Theatre. Since then, the volunteer-based organization has
taken significant steps towards realizing its vision to develop
the theatre into a community arts center.
First, TTAP officially registered for non-profit
status, which helped increase their eligibility to receive
arts grants. Fundraising efforts have resulted in a $50,000
grant from the D.C. government (thanks in part to Adrian Fenty)
and $3,000 from the ANC.
Due to their tenant status, TTAP plans to first
use funds on technical improvements, such as the lighting
and sound system in the theatre, rather than on any structural
or cosmetic renovations. At present, there is speculation
over the possible purchase of a film projector which would
enable the theatre to host movies and film festivals.
TTAP has also grown to over 100 members, all
of whom contribute time and/or money towards the theatre's
progress. Members are also involved in planning events and
theatre upkeep.
The theatre hosted several productions over
the summer including a Shakespearian play performed by Takoma
home-schoolers, a Liz Lerman teen dance project, and a biographical
lecture called Having Our Say by well-known authors and centenarians,
the Delancy sisters. Future plans (still tentative) may include
a production of the Nutcracker ballet in December and a Japanamation
festival to coincide with the Spring Cherry Blossom Festival.
This month, the Takoma Theatre Arts Project
will partner with the Institute of Musical Traditions to
present renowned Scottish musician Dougie
MacLean in concert Monday, September 23 at 8:00
p.m.
Both organizations are excited about the possibilities
this concert could portend. The Institute of Musical Traditions
founder, David Eisner, believes this concert could be a turning
point for the theatre which remains vitually invisible even
to its neighbors. "We're extremely excited to be working with
TTAP to put the Takoma Theatre back on the map. For many years
this valuable resource has been sitting underutilized. When
people see what a wonderful environment it is, we will lay
[any doubts] to rest."
The Takoma Theatre is a marvelous space, with
a large wooden stage and seating for 550 people. A key asset
is the auditorium's natural acoustics which are enhanced by
a large central dome in the ceiling. Be careful what you say!
In a physics phenomenon similar to that found in the U.S.
Capital, the acoustics of the dome allow you to hear a whisper
from 15 feet away! Ð a helpful trick for the piano player
in the days of silent movies, and a characteristic that makes
this one of the best sounding venues in all of D.C.
To learn more about the Takoma Theatre Arts
Project, or to become a member, call 202-413-3242 or visit
www.takomatheatre.org.
|
