Two University of Rochester graduates have committed to a $5 million donation to support performing arts programming and provide seed funding for the proposed construction of a new theater on the River Campus.
The donation comes from Edgar Smith and Lusette (Andy) Smith. The Smiths, along with University Trustee Thomas Sloan and Linda Sloan are helping lead the effort for the proposed theater.
Officials say there is a shortage of performance and rehearsal space on the River Campus and the proposed studio theater would help fill that need.
The new theater supports the mission of the Institute for the Performing Arts, which launched last year to help showcase a variety of music, dance and theater programs on campus and in the community.
The timeline for construction of a new theater depends on the ability to raise additional donations.
