Long Wharf Theatre's Mainstage Renovation Recognized With Build New England Award

Long Wharf Theatre's Mainstage renovation project, previously lauded as a hit with our patrons, has now received critical acclaim.

The theatre's $3.8 million renovation project, designed by Gregg, Wies and Gardner, has been selected as an award-winner in the ACG-sponsored Build New England Awards Program 2013.

The awards program is run by ACG of Massachusetts, The Association of Commercial and Institutional Builders, an established trade organization. "This unique, juried awards program brings public awareness to the positive contributions of the building industry and recognizes the collaborative endeavors of the key project team members for the successful completion of the facilities that we use every day," according to ACG.

The awards Gala will take place on Thursday, October 3 at the International Hotel in Boston.

"All of us at Long Wharf Theatre are thrilled that our renovation is receiving this recognition. This award truly acknowledges the collaborative nature between Long Wharf and all our partners: Gregg, Wies and Gardner Architects, Gilbane, and Petra Construction," said Managing Director Joshua Borenstein.

The awards are intended to recognize project teams, which include the builder, owner, and architect, for notable works. "There's lots of competition for recognition and we are very pleased that our work with the Theatre was selected for this honor. It's also notable in that it recognizes the contribution of all involved with the project, and certainly in the case of our Long Wharf Theatre project, the success was tied to everyone's efforts. I don't think I've ever been involved in a job where everyone worked harder and more effectively than in this one," said Rick Wies, architect on the project.

"On behalf of the entire Project Team we are proud to be recognized by The Associated General Contractors of America Build New England Awards Program. Our heartfelt thanks to the Long Wharf Theatre Board of Trustees and Staff Members for placing their faith and trust in the Project Team. Nothing beats an award winning project for an award winning theatre," said Guido Petra, president of Petra Construction.

The primary objective of the renovation was to enhance patron comfort with new, roomier seating in the theatre, a bigger lobby, a new bar, and a facelift that embraces the unique industrial nature of the site, while updating it for the 21st century. In addition, new heating and air conditioning system were installed for the benefit of patrons and artists alike. A new lighting grid allows designers more flexibility in terms of their artistic choices.

For more information about Long Wharf Theatre, visit www.longwharf.org.