Theater News

La MaMa Announces Plans for New Theater Space and Renovation Project

The venerable venue will undergo a massive transformation in the coming years.

A first look at La MaMa's newest space, The Downstairs.
A first look at La MaMa's newest space, the Downstairs.
(© Jinyoul Lim)

Theatrical venue La MaMa will open a new 6,500-square-foot performance space, called the Downstairs, this fall.

The multidisciplinary venue, designed by Martin Kapell, will feature a 150-seat theater, an exhibition space, and a classroom. The opening will kick off La MaMa's new multi-million-dollar construction project to restore all of the organization's theaters, studios, and lobbies.

First up for the new space is Shank's Mare, Tom Lee and Koryu Nishikawa V.'s exploration of life, death, and tradition using Japanese puppetry, video projections, and live music. Performances will begin November 6.

La MaMa is dedicated to the artist and all aspects of the theatre. Founded in 1961 by Ellen Stewart, the theater annually presents over 100 productions with artists from all over the world. The public is invited to attend a sneak preview of the Downstairs on September 28 beginning at 6:30pm.

For tickets to Shank's Mare, click here.