Now Open:
Downstairs at The 5th
Sheryl Neupert, Marilynn Sheldon and Norman Rice officially open the new Downstairs at The 5th with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo: Team Photogenic.
On August 25 2008, over 100 board members, donors, actors, musicians, construction workers and special friends of The 5th Avenue Theatre gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Downstairs at The 5th: The Marilynn Sheldon Rehearsal and Education Center.
This beautiful new space (located just below the main stage) includes a full-sized rehearsal hall, music and acting studios, green room, costume shop, scene shop and catering kitchen. By bringing these elements onsite, we have been able to significantly streamline costs, and provide a focused, professional work environment for our artists.
The grand opening festivities began with a champagne toast and ribbon-cutting ceremony by Chairman of the Board Norman Rice and lead donors Sheryl and Peter Neupert. Guests streamed inside to enjoy a delicious spread prepared by our good friends at Sazerac, and entertainment by some of The 5th's finest! The most memorable moment of the evening was when generous, 5th Avenue supporter, Sheryl Neupert, officially dedicated the space to former Managing Director Marilynn Sheldon.
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this dream a reality. Your generosity has helped ensure that The 5th Avenue Theatre remains a cornerstone of the downtown Seattle business community and a catalyst for musical theater in our region.
David Armstrong, Mark Dederer of Safeco, Marilynn Sheldon and Norman Rice
in front of the Safeco Insurance Foundation Music Studio. Photo: Team Photogenic.
A Round of Applause for Our Builders
Thank you to the following companies and individuals for their hard work constructing the Downstairs at the 5th space thus far:
Turner Special Projects Division
- Jacalyn Costigan
- Don Severide
- Joy Okazaki
- Andrew Mark
- Matt Blakeney
- Chris Killian
- Larry Barton
Weaver Architects
- Hank Weaver
- Jarrod Arbini
- Eric DeGroot
Magnusson Klemencic Associates
Unico Properties, LLC