Austin theater raises the curtain on expansive east side performance venue
Austin Playhouse is hoping to break ground in late 2019.
A popular Austin theater is staging perhaps the biggest production in its history — construction of a permanent performance space. In early April, Austin Playhouse paid nearly $1.3 million for a 2.8-acre plot at 1717 E. Anderson Ln., where it’ll build its new home.
The glittering new theater will feature a 227-seat performance venue, a 99-seat performance venue, and possibly a smaller “black box” space.
“A permanent, sustainable home will give this veteran arts organization security and an opportunity for growth. It will also allow us to serve as a performance home for other arts organizations,” says Lara Toner Haddock, artistic director of Austin Playhouse.
A $1 million anonymous donation and a short-term loan from Comerica Bank financed the land purchase.
Currently, Austin Playhouse occupies a 143-seat venue at Austin Community College’s Highland campus. The organization’s lease there runs through June 2021.
