You've heard a lot about “myspace.” Welcome to yourspace.

This summer, a new Patron's Lounge for Roundabout's Chairman's Circle and Corporate Club members will be unveiled to bring back the classic sophistication that distinguished Studio 54 as an iconic theatre in a class of its own. Although Studio 54 has been returned to its theatrical origins for nearly a decade, beginning with Roundabout's landmark revival of Cabaret in 1998, the name still evokes nostalgia of its historical development from an opera house, to a studio, and a nightclub that defined an era. Now, one of our permanent homes on Broadway and one of the most sought after theatre spaces in New York, Studio 54 continues to evolve with another round of renovations and an exciting new addition that recalls its legendary glamour.

Over the past two years, Studio 54 has undergone a series of renovations–some visible, some behind the scenes-to enhance the historic theatre, while staying true to its legacy. The addition of important audience amenities, like accessible restrooms on the orchestra level, and newly-renovated restrooms in the mezzanine, make Studio 54 a more comfortable place for more than 40,000 subscribers. Thanks to the City of New York, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and the New York Council under the leadership of Speaker Christine Quinn, Roundabout has been able to purchase permanent lighting equipment for the theatre. There have also been significant improvements to the roof, the marquee, a new billboard sign on 53rd Street, and other important technical aspects of the space, enhancing the artistic amenities of the theatre.

Now, the addition of a new private lounge will provide yet another way to honor the tradition of Studio 54 and our major supporters by providing an exclusive and intimate space for guests to use pre-show and during intermission. The Langworthy Lounge in the American Airlines Theatre and the Yegen & Donnalley Lounge in the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre/Laura Pels Theatre have both been important enhancements to the theatre-going experience of our more than 700 Chairman's Circle members and Corporate Club members. The 1,000 square foot space located on Studio 54's lower level will provide a similar elegant atmosphere for these members to share stories of their Roundabout history and mutual appreciation of the theatre. Executive Director Julia Levy states, “Our Chairman's Circle and Corporate Club members have done so much to make our work possible, so it really means a lot to be able to give them a special gathering place at each of our theatres. Creating a new Patron's Lounge at Studio 54-and it will be a truly beautiful space-is our way of saying thanks to these very generous supporters.”

But how do you create a welcoming lounge from what used to be catering offices? First, you undergo a complete demolition, including relocating load-bearing columns and carving out a continuous space to house private restrooms, a bar, and ample lounge seating for our guests. Then, you team up with architects Fred Basch of Karlsberger Architecture, P.C. (www.karlsberger.com) and Robert Ascione of Design Collective of New York, who have worked on many significant projects for Roundabout over the years, and with leading design firm White Webb LLC (www.whitewebb.com) to make this new space come alive. Frank Webb notes, “Our goal in designing the space was to pay homage to the iconic nature of Studio 54, but not attempt to recreate its former look. Instead, we focused on incorporating colors, furnishings, and artwork that reference the 1970's, but still feel very modern, eye-catching, and luxurious. Given its planned use, we wanted to create an environment that is sophisticated, durable, and flexible, but also fun and slightly outrageous. As in Studio 54's heyday, the crowds will clamor for a night in the lounge.”

The new Patron's Lounge is opening for guests in just a few months and Roundabout is excited to offer our donors the exclusive opportunity to name this unique space. A generous gift will award you a permanent legacy at Studio 54, and we will prominently display your name in one of New York City's cultural icons. Through named gifts, Roundabout is able to honor the extraordinary support of our donors as they help to secure our future. If you or your corporation would like to take advantage of this important naming opportunity, please contact Jeffory Lawson at 212.719.9393.

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