The Miners Alley Playhouse (MAP) in Golden, Colorado, is set to open the town’s first performing arts center in the historic Meyer Hardware store. The new state-of-the-art theater marks a major milestone for the theater company and the community.
For nearly 50 years, the iconic Meyer Hardware store was a staple in downtown Golden, drawing a diverse crowd of people. However, on Saturday, the Miners Alley Playhouse (MAP) will transform the space into the town’s first-ever performing arts center. This new venture signifies a significant step for MAP, as it moves from a supporting player to a leading force in the community. The opening production, “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical,” will kick off the first phase of the center’s launch. With plans for a piano bar and a larger theater space, the Miners Alley Playhouse Performing Arts Center aims to elevate the performing arts in Golden.
From Humble Roots to Cultural Hub
MAP’s journey began in 2003 when Rick Bernstein, founder of the Morrison Theatre Company, opened a small community theater in Golden. The project required a $200,000 loan from the Golden Civic Foundation, which was a significant undertaking at the time. Over the past two decades, MAP has staged over 100 productions, attracting an annual audience of 20,000 people, with 92% coming from outside Golden. The theater company has employed over 1,000 actors and designers and has engaged thousands of students through school-related programs. The economic impact of MAP on the Golden community has been estimated at $7.5 million since 2018.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
MAP’s expansion into the former Meyer Hardware store was made possible through a public-private partnership. The theater company purchased the property for $4.95 million, with $2.5 million coming from Colorado Creative Industries and $2 million from the Golden Downtown Development Authority and the Golden Urban Renewal Authority. The bid was supported by the Golden Civic Foundation, the city of Golden, downtown businesses, and the community at large. The project is now a $17 million undertaking, reflecting the significant growth and impact of MAP over the years.
A New Home for the Arts
The new Miners Alley Playhouse Performing Arts Center will span 30,000 square feet, a 757% increase from its previous location. The first phase includes a state-of-the-art theater with a seating capacity of 130. The second phase will see the expansion of the mainstage theater to accommodate 300 seats fully encircling the stage. The center will also feature a smaller studio theater, providing more programming options throughout the year. Additionally, an education center with multiple classrooms will be established, offering expanded learning opportunities and a space for young people to gather and engage in after-school activities.
Beyond Economic Impact
While the economic impact of MAP on the Golden community is significant, the founders, Len Matheo and Lisa DeCaro, envision the new center as more than just a place to watch plays. They see it as Golden’s new town square, fostering connection, empathy, and a sense of community. Numerous studies have shown that exposure to performing arts increases empathy and connection among individuals. The new center aims to counter the growing divide and disconnection in society, especially among young people who spend excessive time on devices.
Conclusion: The opening of the Miners Alley Playhouse Performing Arts Center in the former Meyer Hardware store marks a transformative moment for both the theater company and the community of Golden. With its expanded space and state-of-the-art facilities, the center promises to bring larger productions, increased programming options, and greater engagement with the arts to Golden residents and visitors. Beyond its economic impact, the center aims to foster connection and empathy, serving as a gathering place and a hub for community engagement. As the curtains rise on this new chapter, the Miners Alley Playhouse sets the stage for a vibrant and thriving arts scene in Golden.
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