New York, NY – Lucille Lortel Theatre has announced its purchase of a three-story carriage house in Chelsea which will help support emerging artists, the creation of new theatrical works, and bolster New York’s iconic downtown theatre scene. The building, located at 134 West 18 Street, will serve as the theatre’s new headquarters, featuring a fully accessible 61-seat studio theatre, a public collaborative co-working space for artists, and new office space for the growing theatre company. This will be the Theatre's second space, in addition to its recently renovated historic Lucille Lortel Theatre on Christopher Street.
The theatre has also announced the appointment of Michael Heitzman and Caridad Svich as Co-Artistic Directors of new work. Joining Kimille Howard, Artistic Director of Educational Programs, Michael and Caridad will be creating new programming and initiatives as the theatre expands its physical and artistic footprint.
“We are excited to be able to continue Lucille Lortel’s legacy of supporting New York City artists and theater lovers by expanding our physical presence and programming. With the purchase of this space, theater artists will have a space to dream and create new works, while our growing theatre company and artistic team will spearhead new programs and shepherd new works. This new space expands on Lucille Lortel Theatre’s mission to foster both new and established artists, increase awareness and appreciation of off-Broadway, and create a larger, more diverse community of theatre makers and audiences,” said George Forbes, Executive Director of Lucille Lortel Theatre.
“As Artistic Director for New Musical Development, I am honored to have this opportunity to expand my over ten-year relationship with this legendary organization. I’m proud to continue Lucille Lortel’s legacy of championing artists by providing a vibrant and exciting home for developing new musical theater,” said Michael Heitzman, newly announced Artistic Director for Musical Development of Lucille Lortel Theatre.
“It is with great pleasure that I am joining Lucille Lortel Theatre as Artistic Director of New Play Development. My passion and commitment to new writing for performance both as an artist and new play champion finds a home in this historic organization. I am looking forward to establishing an artist-centered, climate-conscious program that will nurture theatre-makers and their works for now and the future. During these perilous times, it gives me hope that the Lortel wants to support the kind of artistic dreaming necessary that will help guide us all through and toward the light,” said Caridad Svich, newly announced Artistic Director of New Play Development.