Since the Covedale Center for the Performing Arts opened back in 2002, it’s become the go-to place for onstage entertainment on the West Side, including the summertime Cincinnati Young People’s Theatre, which provides theater opportunities for high school kids from across the city. The facility is owned and operated by Cincinnati Landmark Productions (CLP), recently inducted into the Cincinnati Entertainment Awards Hall of Fame on Aug. 30. CLP also operates the Showboat Majestic.
The Covedale Center has been a busy place, but the converted 1940s movie house had minimal backstage space — until now. After several years of tight quarters, no running water or bathrooms, the facility has been renovated and expanded: There is now a rehearsal studio, a green room, two dressing rooms, shop space and two handicapped-accessible bathrooms. This evening marks the grand opening of the addition with a reception for VIPs and local media.—-
In addition to providing the Covedale with sufficient rehearsal space, the studio will enable an expansion of programming for young people with an after-school drama program for kids who are 10-13 years old.
CLP just launched its 2009-10 season at the Covedale with a production of Meet Me in St. Louis, onstage through Oct. 18.
CLP raised the funds for this renovation from an array of contributors: The Greater Cincinnati Foundation, The Ohio Valley Foundation, The Louise Taft Semple Foundation, HUD EDI Grant, City of Cincinnati Capital Arts Grant, State of Ohio Capital Funding Grant, several anonymous foundations and numerous patron donations. You can learn more about the Covedale Center (4900 Glenway Ave.) at www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.
