News Summary
The River and Rail Theatre Company in Knoxville is set to relocate to a new venue on Magnolia Avenue by 2027. The move follows the sale of their former location, the Old City Performing Arts Center, and promises to increase seating capacity and introduce modern amenities while maintaining historic charm. This transition marks a significant investment in the future of local theater and aims to strengthen community ties and cultural presence in the area.
Big Changes Ahead for River and Rail Theatre Company in Knoxville!
Have you heard the exciting news from Knoxville? The River and Rail Theatre Company is gearing up for quite the adventure as they prepare to relocate and expand their offerings with a brand-new venue by 2027! This is not just a mere shift; it’s a leap toward a brighter, more dynamic future!
A New Home on Magnolia Avenue
The theatre company recently sold their former home, the beloved Old City Performing Arts Center (OCPAC), back in late 2024. But don’t worry; they’re not going far! They’ve snapped up an impressive building at 2651 Magnolia Avenue, which boasts a sprawling 13,000 square feet of potential!
One of the charming features of the new location is its historic architecture. Part of the building was originally crafted by one of the Sterchi Brothers and reflects the stunning Spanish Eclectic Style. It’s bound to add a unique character that patrons are sure to love!
A Treasure of New Amenities
So, what can theatre-goers expect in this new space? Well, imagine walking into a modern lobby, complete with a buzzing box office, a chic bar, and a mouth-watering concession stand. And let’s not forget about parking – there will be enough space for around 100 vehicles! What a relief for those who’ve trekked across town!
As if that weren’t enough, the seating capacity is set to soar to between 225 and 240 seats, representing a fantastic 50-60% increase from the old venue. This means more tickets available for the public, which is perfect as River and Rail celebrates its tenth anniversary!
What’s Coming Next?
Now, you might be wondering about the timeline for all of this. River and Rail will continue operations at OCPAC for another year, giving patrons plenty of opportunities to enjoy upcoming productions. However, renovations at the new spot are estimated to wrap up by late 2026 or early 2027. The anticipation will be worth it!
Investing in the Future
To make this all happen, River and Rail Theatre is planning a multi-million-dollar fundraising campaign that they aim to kick off later this year. Their purchase price for the new building was $1.65 million, whereas the sale of OCPAC brought in a rewarding $2.13 million. It seems like a smart move, right?
Community and Collaboration
Another exciting aspect of the new venue is the partnership with a faith community group, Crossings, which will be moving parts of their operations into the space. This collaboration is set to enhance community support and revenue, which is a win-win for everyone involved!
In the design department, River and Rail is teaming up with experienced local firms like Benefield Richters and Urbano Group, along with consultants such as Wendy Holmes. This collaborative effort is critical to create a venue that not only meets artistic goals but also captures the essence of East Knoxville.
Bridging Community Ties
As they make this transition, River and Rail Theatre is heavily focused on building stronger ties with the East Knoxville community. They are eagerly planning outreach opportunities to engage more local residents and ensure a vibrant, accessible arts culture. It truly sounds like an exciting time to get involved!
With a delightful combination of historic charm and modern facilities, the River and Rail Theatre Company’s new venue promises to be a focal point of culture and creativity in Knoxville. So, keep your eyes peeled for this incredible transformation! Who knew so much excitement was bubbling just around the corner?
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Inside of Knoxville: River and Rail Theatre Company Announces New Location
- WBIR: River and Rail Theatre on Magnolia Avenue
- Inside of Knoxville: A Look Inside the New Jenny Boyd Carousel Theatre
- Google Search: River and Rail Theatre Company
- MSN News: River and Rail Theatre Set to Move
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theatre
