The Shakespeare Theatre is a centerpiece in the revitalization of Washington’s historic business district. It was designed for maximum flexibility, both acoustically and in its physical configuration. The stage can be changed from proscenium to thrust to theatre-in-the-round. Because the 775-seat space occupies the first five and-a-half floors of an eleven-storey office tower our first task was to sufficiently differentiate it. We accomplished that with a three-level glass façade that includes a bay window that extends out to the street and participates in the “cultural corridor” of F Street. It signals the theatre’s identity and purpose, and engages the building with the street. Pedestrians can see inside to the lobby, and during intermission audience members have a unique view of the street. It establishes an ongoing dialogue.

The theatre was designed to address the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s expanded program and build upon the character of the existing hall. It is designed to accommodate dance and music, and the theatre can be reconfigured as proscenium, thrust, or arena, with accompanying variable acoustic configurations. The lobby can be used for receptions and events, and the transparency of the building helps foster a sense of community.