Red Mountain Theatre Company breaks ground on $25 million Arts Campus in Birmingham
Reading time: 3 minutes
Big things are happening for Birmingham’s Red Mountain Theatre Company (RMTC)! On Wednesday, December 11 at 1:30PM, the nonprofit officially broke ground on a $25 million Arts Campus.
There to support the groundbreaking was Birmingham Mayor and RMTC honorary board member, Randall Woodfin, area officials, key donors and members of the community. Bham Now was also there to show support.
A 40-Year Journey
Over the past four decades, RMTC has been housed in multiple locations around Birmingham, its most current being 301 19th Street North.
For students, faculty and actors, this meant rehearsals, productions and classes were often subject to location changes.
“It has been a dream for us to consolidate our programming in order to better serve our community. We envision an arts campus where we can development life—and theatre—skills, and where for-profit and nonprofit can drive economic growth together.”
Keith Cromwell, Executive Director, RMTC
The 40-year journey for a permanent location will soon end as construction on their new home pursues.
Where Will RMTC’s New Home Be?
In a primo spot right in the heart of downtown Birmingham at 1600 3rd Avenue South between 16th and 17th Streets South next to Regions Field.
“RMTC is right at the heart of our city, and this space will allow us to be more efficient and more effective in our mission of enriching, education and engaging our community.”
Kathryn Harbert, past president and campaign chair, RMTC Board
Here’s who will be working on the project:
- LIVE Design Group (architects)
- Brasfield and Gorrie (general contractors)
- Harbert Realty Services
What’s to Come for RMTC?
There’s much in store for RMTC’s new Arts Campus. Here’s a peek at what to expect:
Education Center
RMTC offers education programs that build positive life skills for young people and provide growth opportunities for theatre professionals in Birmingham. Needless to say, RMTC wouldn’t be what it is without its students, faculty and actors.
Soon, this talented group of performers can expect something pretty awesome—a brand-new education center that will include a 100-seat Discovery Theatre with rehearsal and classroom space.
Grand Lobby
This won’t be any ordinary lobby. It will be a grand lobby that features a full-service bar and donor lounge that can convert into a small piano bar to entertain guests when the theatre does not have a performance.
Main Theatre
Currently, RMTC’s main theatre offers an intimate cabaret setting with 360 seats and small tables and chairs. But this will soon transform into a large proscenium-style theatre with 450 seats.
When Will Construction Conclude?
Birmingham’s RMTC will officially chant “there’s no place like home” when construction of the new Arts Campus wraps up in summer 2021. We’ll see you on opening day!
Are you excited about what’s to come for Red Mountain Theatre Company in Birmingham? Tag @bhamnow and let us know your thoughts!
