Lincoln Center’s New Claire Tow Theater

Lincoln Center recently announced its intended construction of a 131-seat black box space, to be built atop the Vivian Beaumont Theater. The addition, to be named the Claire Tow Theater, will feature a terrace overlooking Lincoln Square.

Designed by architect Hugh Hardy, the space will be simple. Working with the approval of weary preservationists, the architect has imagined an addition not dissimilar to Lincoln Center’s overall style. Its’ simple lines and rectilinear composition adhere closely to the makeup of the surrounding structures.

While placing the new theater on the roof of an existing building is a practical consideration, given Manhattan’s lack of space, the decision is also metaphorical. A black box theater is a space that places the stage in the middle of a circular audience. Traditionally painted black, they are most often used to stage minimalist or avant-garde plays, which are largely conceptual.

The space also represents the loftier aspirations of the Center’s theater program. In the words of director Bernard Gersten, “We’re not breaking ground, we’re breaking the roof”.

While many traditionalists opposed the notion of the additional structure, the reality of the space’s modest yet Modernist design has calmed many protests. Hardy approaches the project with great reverence, having worked in his youth as an assistant during the construction of the Beaumont Theater. As such, his intention is to set his work back far enough that it will not interfere with the classic look or feel of the space.

The Claire Tow Theater breaks roof in March, and is expected to open by early 2012, with the aim of nurturing emerging talent.

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by William Gish
Gloobbi Architecture

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