Studio J2 Designs The Music Hall’s New Loft Theatre

Studio J2, a Lincoln architectural firm, in association with local Portsmouth architect TMS Architects, proudly announces the successful completion and opening of The Music Hall Loft in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The Music Hall, the performing arts powerhouse which has featured entertainment from around the world in its landmark Victorian theater in downtown Portsmouth, for many years, has added a second theater with the opening of The Loft at 131 Congress Street on Saturday, April 2.

"This new space, funded by visionary donors, patrons, members, volunteers and the broader Seacoast community, will bring a new dynamism to Portsmouth's cultural scene and further illuminate the city as a center for inspiration and entertainment in coastal New England."
The Loft features live performances and film in a smaller, more intimate setting, with the added advantage of allowing theatre goers to take gourmet food and cocktails to their seats. In addition, the new venue significantly increases capacity for The Music Hall's existing educational and community programs. Whether in a theatre, cabaret or master class configuration, arranged for a small workshop or artist reception, the Loft will engage children, teens, and adults with deeper, richer experiences of music, theatre, dance, and literature. Beyond the performance space, 131 Congress will also house administrative staff offices.

"The Music Hall Loft will provide patrons with a unique experience - high quality programs in a modern world-class downtown 124-seat theatre," said Music Hall Executive Director Patricia Lynch. "This new space, funded by visionary donors, patrons, members, volunteers and the broader Seacoast community, will bring a new dynamism to Portsmouth's cultural scene and further illuminate the city as a center for inspiration and entertainment in coastal New England."

Studio J2 is led by partners John P. Lynch and Jennifer Steffek. Their previous award-winning collaborations include the Kendall Square Cinema in Cambridge, MA and numerous other commercial and high end residential projects. The firm, which will be featured in the upcoming May/June issue of Builder's Quarterly Magazine, was founded eight years ago and has a particular focus on projects related to the visual and performing arts. Studio J2 is committed to sustainable ("Green") design and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). For more information please visit http://www.studioJ2.com/.