Taproot Theatre Co's Eleanor Roosevelt Building Plans Go To Review

One year after the October 23, 2009, arson in Greenwood, a mural covers the site of the former Eleanor Roosevelt Building, its centerpiece a phoenix promising a return from the ashes. Taproot Theatre Company, which owns the property, has been actively working on plans for that return. Those plans go to the Northwest Design Review Board on December 13 at 6:30 p.m. The location has yet to be announced.

Initially purchasing the ERB in 2000 with plans to eventually expand, Taproot Theatre leased the building to severAl Small businesses, waiting for the right time to begin the expansion process. However, the theatre's timelines were changed on October 23, 2009, when Taproot became the victim of arson.

While Taproot's original expansion plans would require years of planning and fundraising before even breaking ground, the theatre's leadership has identified a solution that will both honor its original vision and its patrons' investment, while serving the neighborhood with a timely restoration, infusing Greenwood with renewed vitality.

The proposed 12,000 square foot building will include an expanded lobby and café space, serving both Taproot's patrons and the general public year-round. In addition, Taproot plans to add a second performance and rehearsal space, a new scene shop, and office space. The project follows "green construction" guidelines and is anticipated to be LEED certified.

ABOUT TAPROOT THEATRE COMPANY
Taproot Theatre Company is a professional, non-profit theatre company with a multi-faceted production program. Founded in 1976, Taproot Theatre serves the Pacific Northwest with Mainstage Productions, Touring Productions and Acting Studio. Taproot exists to create theatre that explores the beauty and questions of life while bringing hope to our search for meaning. Taproot Theatre Company is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), Theatre Puget Sound (TPS), and the Greenwood-Phinney Chamber of Commerce.

Support for Taproot Theatre's 2011 Mainstage season is generously provided by The Charles Simonyi Fund for Arts and Sciences, The Seattle Foundation, 4Culture, ArtsFund and PONCHO.

 

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