Revitalizing Ancram’s Hamlet
with an expanded theater complex committed to fostering equity and access to the performing arts
Designs and renderings by Ackert Architecture
Ancram Opera House Theater (AOHT) is an essential contributor to the cultural landscape in the region, with an impact that also extends across the country and internationally. AOHT produces theater, commissions artists creating new work, presents cutting-edge cabaret performers, and hosts free community classes and storytelling events, including an ongoing residency with the Taconic Hills School. To support these burgeoning activities, AOHT is acquiring a historic property at 1326 County Route 7, immediately adjacent to AOHT’s performance hall. Once restored, the building will provide additional artist and intern housing and meeting areas for workshops, community gatherings and administrative needs. AOHT also plans to improve accessibility for all participants on its new expanded complex.
ACCESSIBILTIY & ENGAGEMENT
Purchasing and renovating 1326 County Route 7 will free up space off the lobby of the performance hall for a new accessible restroom.
Both the new building and performance hall will be equipped with ramp access.
Central to the renovation plans of 1326 County Route 7 is a multi-purpose meeting room—a new accessible space where artist collaboration, rehearsals, community workshops, storytelling coaching, and more can all take place.
A THRIVING ANCRAM HAMLET
There has been a marked increase of investment in revitalizing the hamlet of Ancram, listed on the National Register of Historic Places; the renovation of 1326 County Route 7 adds to that momentum by saving and restoring a home dating back to 1780, and infusing it with new purpose.
A shared deck, connecting the restored building with the performance hall, will provide a comfortable gathering area for patrons to AOHT performances, workshop participants and passersby.
CREATING OPPORTUNITY
AOHT’s internship program provides invaluable on-the-job training to those just starting out in their careers; however, AOHT has not been able to provide housing, making recruitment challenging.
Many students, including those enrolled at Dutchess Community College (DCC) which regularly provides interns, are unable to participate when housing isn’t provided. The accommodations will make AOHT’s internship program more available for all, regardless of economic background.
A COMMUNITY NEEDS THE ARTS
All of what AOHT does—from storytelling at Taconic Hills School to producing award-winning theater with visionary artists at the top of their field—is driven by the goal to connect the arts with the everyday lives of those who call this region their home. The new building and improvements fully activate this mission and shall serve the community for years to come.