RBTL UNVEILS MAJOR MILESTONE IN PROJECT RESTOURATION

REIMAGINED ENTRANCE AT WHPAC OPENS, BOASTING ENHANCED ACCESSIBILITY FOR PATRONS

(Rochester, NY) – The Rochester Broadway Theatre League (RBTL) is proud to unveil the reimagined west entrance and corridor of the West Herr Performing Arts Center (WHPAC), after more than a year of construction. This bold step in transforming the WHPAC into an arts, entertainment and cultural hub, is part of RBTL’s multi-phase PROJECT RESTOURATION, which boasts enhanced accessibility, meets the evolving needs of patrons and dramatically improves guest experiences.

“This is the first act of a show 31 years in the making. A show that was written for the people of Rochester and the entire region,” said RBTL CEO and Board Chair, Arnie Rothschild. “While today we debut this turning point in the production, there are still more improvements to roll out with one intent – making this amazing historic venue the source of pride for everyone in the community for decades to come!”

This exciting renovation also includes a revamped Floreano Room as a vibrant pre-show entertainment space, an added drop-off area and a newly redesigned, sleek corridor, complete with digital screens for guest information. This corridor, which incorporates historic images on display, leads to the Performing Arts Center lobby and eliminates the narrow, winding hallway that was previously there. These enhancements make navigating the venue easier, while setting the stage to be more immersive and inclusive for all who visit.

“On behalf of our over 1,000 West Herr employees in the Rochester area, we are proud to have our name included on this historic entertainment complex,” said West Herr Automotive Group President and CEO, Scott Bieler. “The restoration has surpassed all expectations, and we are extremely excited to be part of this transformation that provides greater accessibility for future generations to enjoy the performing arts.”

PROJECT RESTOURATION marks the largest renovation effort undertaken by an arts organization in Rochester and continues to gain momentum. Work replacing the building’s front steps and reconstructing the sidewalks, creating a fresh look from East Main Street, is actively ongoing. The upcoming stages include expanding the main floor President’s Club to the room’s original size and once again featuring its grand stone fireplace, reconfiguring backstage dressing areas for cast and crew and preparing smaller-scale performances spaces for use.

Future work will also focus on the stunning and historic Cathedral Hall, a former lodge room from the building’s time as a Masonic Temple, to accommodate a variety of performance and entertainment opportunities. This will further RBTL’s goal of creating a renowned entertainment venue for the region and establishing Rochester as a true arts destination.

“By defining Rochester as a city for the arts, and creating a multi-stage, mixed use Performing Arts Center, RBTL is ensuring the longevity of the entertainment industry, for not only Monroe County, but surrounding areas,” said RBTL’s longtime presenting partner, Albert Nocciolino. “The completion of this project will bring a versatility that will only broaden local arts offerings.”

To date, more than $18 million has been committed for the first phase of PROJECT RESTOURATION, with the total cost estimated to be $65 million. Moving forward, community involvement is critical for progress and realizing the vision of a beautifully restored cultural landmark. Upon completion, it will shine as the anchor of the Neighborhood of the Arts for future generations. Those interested in helping to support this innovative effort, can make a tax-deductible donation at WestHerrPAC.org or by reaching out to RBTL CEO Arnie Rothschild at 585-277-3332 or ahr@rbtl.org.

RBTL aims to complete PROJECT RESTOURATION by 2030, the building’s 100th anniversary.