Center Stage
Center Stage: Baltimore, MD
Named the State Theater of Maryland in 1978, Baltimore Center Stage is Baltimore’s largest professional producing theater, welcoming nearly 100,000 patrons each season. After undergoing a $28M renovation, the theater has an expanded lobby, updated Head Theater with dedicated lobby, and expanded scene shop, including replacement of all MEP/FP equipment.
At the project inception, a new addition housing a third theater space was envisioned. After a lengthy feasibility phase with associated detailed costing, it was determined that adding a third performance space was not economically feasible. Accordingly, the Head Theater was fully renovated to provide three major configurations with an End Stage, Thrust, and In-The-Round. Key design components in the Head Theater include a state-of-the-art displacement ventilation system with supply air integrated into (below) the seating area. This design uses natural air flow to cool occupants while consuming less energy than traditional overhead distribution systems. Displacement ventilation is perfect for theaters due to the low airflow velocities, allowing for superior space acoustics.
Photos © Karl Connolly Photography & Kyle Pepperman
Architect: Cho Benn Holback + Associates, Inc.