Blackwell Auditorium, built in 1952, is now part of a state-of-the-art Center for the Performing Arts, a 19,200 square-foot home for RMC’s Theatre program and performing ensembles including Choir, Orchestra, and the co-curricular LUXE Show Choir.
The space, finished in 2022, connects to the original Blackwell footprint and features:
Because this project included building a studio theatre in the new building, the stage in Blackwell Auditorium has been restored to its full size, allowing for larger and grander performances. The space is home to the LUXE Show Choir program, a popular co-curricular part of the RMC performance landscape today, composed of singers, dancers, and musicians; and also, continue to be used by the community for performances by the Richmond Symphony and the Ashland Variety Show, among others.
Renovations in Blackwell also include an enlarged lobby, sound and light lock entrances, and accessible seating. Renovations gave the College the opportunity to improve balcony sightlines and add several rows of seating. Concurrent fundraising will provide upgraded sound, lighting, and video/projection capabilities.
The new building houses the Cobb-Kesler Theatre to accommodate a variety of stage configurations and seating arrangements for 80 to 145 patrons. New lighting and controls, a control room, a green room, and dressing rooms round out this new space. Accompanying the theater are a drama classroom, faculty offices, costume shop, dye room, laundry facility, and scene shop.
All donors of $1,000 or more will be recognized with gratitude on a plaque in the building or with a named seat in Blackwell Auditorium.
Consider making your gift over time! Flexible payment plans are available.
To make a gift of any size, insert “Blackwell Project” in the “Designation of Other” box on the form.
