Here is a detailed look at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center project

New Brunswick Development Corp. is overseeing the development of the new 450,000-square-foot, $172 million project known as the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center. — Courtesy: New Brunswick Development Corp. and Elkus Manfredi Architects

The long-awaited New Brunswick Performing Arts Center broke ground on Wednesday. Here is a breakdown of the $172 million, 450,000-square-foot project.

Theater spaces:

• The new theater complex will include two state-of-the-art, proscenium-style theaters, designed to accommodate musical theater, dance, opera and dramatic theater.
• The Lyric Theatre, which will seat 462 patrons, will feature an 86-foot stage, a 75-foot fly tower and a trap system, with an orchestra pit that will be able to accommodate 60-70 musicians.
• The playhouse, designed primarily for theatrical performances and smaller dancer performances, will have 252 seats and will feature a 60-foot stage and contemporary grid system for lighting and sound and will provide the NBPAC with additional flexibility for lecture, community and musical events to be accommodated.

Rehearsal studios:

• Three rehearsal studios will replicate the stage spaces of the two theaters inside the complex, helping maximize the use of the theater venues by providing access to rehearsal time off the main and second stages.
• Each studio will be designed to support dance, drama, music rehearsals, general classes, workshops and small public performances.

Office space:

• Middlesex County will own 30,000 square feet of office space on two floors above the theater complex, with plans to have arts organizations and potential private sector groups use the space.

Residential:

• Owned and operated by Pennrose LLC, a 207-unit residential rental apartment tower will rise above the theater complex, featuring both market-rate and affordable luxury apartment units, equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and finishes, 10-foot ceilings and open floor plans.
• The tower will also provide residents with access to amenities such as an outdoor roof deck, a demonstration kitchen, work space and a full fitness center.
• The New Brunswick Performing Arts Center development team anticipates partnering with The Actors Fund to market the new luxury units to graphic artists, actors, musicians, dancers and theater support personnel.

Source: New Brunswick Development Corp.