David Rockwell Will Lead Renovation of The Laurie Beechman Theatre

Tony-winning designer and architect David Rockwell will lead the renovation of The Laurie Beechman Theatre, to be completed by the spring.

Named for the late, Tony-nominated star of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, the Manhattan cabaret is located within the West Bank Café, newly owned by Broadway producers Tom D’Angora and Michael D'Angora.

In a statement Rockwell said, “The Laurie Beechman Theatre has been one of the theatre district’s hidden gems for culture seekers over more than 40 years. Having this opportunity to be part of this new incarnation, extending its legacy for new generations of legendary artists and in-the-know audiences, is incredibly meaningful. Our design concept celebrates the space’s rich and diverse history, while delivering an unabashedly glamorous experience for all who enter.”

READ: How a Childhood in Mexico Inspired David Rockwell to Be a Set Designer

“When we first set out to revitalize the Laurie Beechman Theatre and West Bank Café back to life, we knew it needed a makeover glitzier than Louise becoming Gypsy Rose Lee,” added the D’Angoras. “We’re thrilled someone as lauded as David Rockwell would join us for the adventure—it’s truly been a dream come true. We can’t wait to open up the Laurie Beechman’s doors for audiences again this spring.”

Rockwell won his Tony in 2016 for Best Scenic Design of a Musical for the revival of She Loves Me. He is the recipient of five additional Tony nominations for his scenic design for Hairspray, Lucky Guy, Kinky Boots, You Can't Take It With You, and On the Twentieth Century.

Since its opening in 1983, The Laurie Beechman Theatre, previously known as the Downstairs Theatre Bar, has welcomed Joan Rivers, The Who, André De Shields, Tony Shalhoub, Aaron Sorkin, Jinkx Monsoon, and more. In the theatre’s first 14 years, more than 1,500 one-act plays were performed at the theatre. When the venue was scheduled to close in August 2024 after financial difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic, the D'Angoras, Tim Guinee, and Joe Iconis joined forces to raise nearly $1 million to save the café and theatre.

Following the renovation, an official reopening gala will be held on a date to be announced.

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