The Future of West Herr PAC
West Herr Performing Arts Center, Rochester’s former Auditorium Complex, is owned and operated by the Rochester Broadway Theatre League (RBTL). PROJECT RESTOURATION is transforming the venue, also home to West Herr Auditorium Theatre, into a multistage, beautifully restored 1920s-era complex of unbelievable quality and craftsmanship. Through restoration and revitalization, RBTL promises to provide a renowned entertainment venue for the entire Rochester community and region. Upon completion, it will shine as the anchor of the Neighborhood of the Arts for generations to come.
Project Synopsis
Phase One of the West Herr Performing Arts Center restoration and renovation is underway, focusing on enhanced accessibility, adaptability and amenities.
Currently, the project includes RBTL’s new management of five area parking lots, exterior maintenance, and the restoration of several historic brass doors which had darkened over time due to oxidation. Two refurbished elevators and a newly created crossover point now provide long-overdue access to the second-floor Theatre lobby. A new second-floor Theatre lounge/concession space has been created, which includes new men’s and women’s restroom facilities, plus a family/all-gender restroom. Additionally, groundbreaking for a new main floor entrance has begun, having received Preservation Board approval.
Preliminary plans are underway for new backstage artist spaces and the restoration of the Main Street façade. Future phases of the project will introduce dedicated patron drop-off areas, expanded theatre lobbies, additional entry points, new new concession areas and additional restroom facilities. The plan also includes the restoration of several historic spaces within the building, which will be repurposed to accommodate a variety of performance opportunities.
Renderings
Design and architectural teams are actively developing potential renderings and strategies for future improvements.
Follow Our Progress
While rich in beauty and history, the WHPAC complex presents numerous challenges in its current form. To address these, RBTL is collaborating with Pike Construction Services, LaBella Associates and other community partners, to optimize the renovation and enhancement of the existing spaces.
