KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Theatergoers may soon have a new experience when they arrive for a show on Gay Street. The Tennessee Theatre is working to expand its space into some nearby property, providing more room for community events, large gatherings, more concessions areas and additional restrooms.
The theatre said Tuesday it was raising money to help with its "612 Expansion" project. The property was bought in 2019, located at 612 South Gay Street, and will be connected to the theatre's foyer areas. Construction began in April, and the Tennessee Theatre hopes to be done with the project by next fall.
By expanding into the new property, the theatre hopes to address issues that come with sold-out crowds. It hopes to reduce the lines at restrooms and give touring Broadway shows more rehearsal space.
The new space is expected to add around 20,000 square feet and should help the theatre better handle its calendar of events. The theatre has a fundraising goal of $19 million to pay for the project, and it said online that secured around $17 million so far.
The theatre's new space was named the "612 Building," according to a release from the theatre. Previously, it was the "Mechanics' Bank and Trust" building. The building is expected to offer a new, full-service bar on the theatre's balcony level, as well as a donor lounge.
The Tennessee Theatre also said it will not need to close for the expansion. Anyone who wants to donate to support the expansion can donate to the Tennessee Theatre online.