Performance Network Theatre Launches Lobby Enhancement Project

Performance Network Theatre is pleased to announce the kick off of their Lobby Enhancement Project. Details of the Project will be unveiled during PNT's annual Gala, All the World's A Stage, on Saturday, February 21st at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Ann Arbor. During the live auction segment of the Gala, PNT Associate Artist Malcolm Tulip will assist auctioneer Doug Dalton as they solicit pledges from attendees to begin the project.

The coordinator of this Lobby Enhancement project will be Connie Rizzolo Brown, principal at rizzolobrown + novak, who has been working with Performance Network Theatre during the past four months on the plan. Brown has developed a plan to enhance the theatre experience of PNT patrons. In celebration of the tenth season in the new space, our goal will be to have the Lobby Enhancement Project completed by September of 2009!

The Lobby Enhancement Plan will create " a more comfortable lounge and an inviting entry that will draw people in and give them a reason to linger before or after an event or play - to enjoy a glass of wine with a friend in a comfortable atmosphere. New finishes and furnishings, better lighting and circulation will create an exciting theater experience." She has found that " There are some very special pieces that are distinctive and wonderful at PNT - the vibrant donor wall, the interesting canopy and an interior metal wall art piece, pieces that all add a lot to the space."

Working with the PNT Board of Directors and staff, the goal of this project is to improve usage and enhance the existing ambiance by freshening and organizing the space. Brown feels that PNT already offers a superb theater experience wants the quality of the lobby and lounge to reflect this experience and further showcase PNT productions.

Tickets to PNT's annual Gala "All the World's a Stage" are $125 ($75 tax deductible) and are available at 734.663.0681, online at www.performancenetwork.org or by coming to the Performance Network Theatre (120 East Huron St., Ann Arbor) Monday-Saturday 11am - 6pm or one hour before a performance.

For further information on the Lobby Enhancement Project, please contact Director of Development Janet E. Torno at jtorno@performancenetwork.org.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's only resident, professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and the Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside Festival of New Works and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.