There are plans for a new arts venue in Rochester's East End.
It involves a landmark building, the 100 year old former First Church of Christ, Scientist building at 440 East Avenue.
Rochester Lyric Opera is purchasing that building for $1.2 million. The 100 year old building will become a performance hall, that will now be called the Lyric Theatre.
Sue Cotroneo, the managing director of Rochester Lyric Opera says the venue will serve as the new home for that organization and provide a much needed medium-sized venue for several area arts, cultural and educational organizations.
“Over the moon excited and really it's still surreal. I don't know what I'm doing what did I get myself into is really what I'm thinking but here we are I'm ready.”
Rochester Business Alliance President Bob Duffy says this building will add a lot to the region's arts reputation.
And to walk in and take a look you just appreciate the beauty and when it's transformed into a theater it's going to be even more beautiful. And it just cements Rochester's reputation as a hub or arts and culture throughout the state especially Upstate New York.
The new Lyric Theatre venue will include two performance areas, a 900-seat main performance hall, and an adjacent cabaret-style venue Renovations are expected to be completed in the summer of 2016.
