After years of debate, the Board of Trustees for the Chautauqua Institution has voted to have the Amphitheater torn down and replaced.
LP Ciminelli will head the $41.5 million project, which will see a new Amphitheater built that has an expanded bowl and roof structure, access for those with disabilities, an enlarged stage, a 100-musician orchestra pit and a new, 21,000-square foot back-of-the-house facility.
The renderings with this story from the Chautauqua Institution show what the completed Amphitheater will look like.
Construction will begin in early February and then be paused for the 2016 season before continuing in the fall.
The new Amphitheater’s grand opening will be timed with the 2017 season.
The project is being funded entirely by private and foundation donations.
But preservationists say the fight isn't over.
The Committee to Preserve the Historic Chautauqua Amphitheatre, headed by Brian Berg, says they remain committed to preserving and improving "the Amp" and are now weighing all their options in light of this announcement.
According to the committee, the 122-year-old Amphitheater is designated as one of America's 11 most endangered places by the National Trust.
Stay in Touch Anywhere, Anytime with News, Weather and Video -- Download the WKBW app:
Or Sign Up for Our Newsletters -- Delivered to Your E-mail:
