Constellation theater Company’s Final Bow at Historic Source Theatre
WASHINGTON, D.C.-Constellation Theatre Company is preparing to bid farewell to its long-time home at the Source Theatre on 14th street. The company’s current production of Head Over Heels will mark its final performance in the space, concluding an era that has seen the theatre serve as a vital hub for the D.C. arts community for nearly 50 years.
The departure follows unsuccessful efforts,spearheaded by TheatreWashington,to preserve the historic black box theatre. Over the years, the Source Theatre has been a launchpad and home for numerous organizations and artists, including IN Series, Washington Improv Theater, the early years of Capital Fringe, the Washington Theatre Festival, and the original Source Theatre Company led by Joe banno.
The Negotiations That Fell Through
constellation Theatre Company had hoped to purchase the Source Theatre and maintain its legacy. According to Constellation, CulturalDC, the landlord of the Source Theatre, informed the company in August 2024 that the building was for sale, with the intention of selling to another nonprofit arts institution.
- Initial Interest: Constellation, having rented the space for 18 years, expressed strong interest in buying the building.
- Fundraising Efforts: The company launched fundraising initiatives and secured backing from supporters.
- Offer Submission: Constellation submitted what they considered a fair market-value offer.
- Outcome: Despite multiple offers, CulturalDC decided not to sell the building to Constellation.
Did You Know?
Black box theaters are versatile performance spaces, often painted black, that can be adapted to various stage configurations. This flexibility makes them ideal for experimental and intimate productions.
A legacy of Collaboration and Community
During its time at the Source Theatre, Constellation has collaborated with over 1,000 artists and welcomed tens of thousands of patrons. The company plans to continue producing theatre and will announce its new location at a later date.
Allison Stockman, artistic director of constellation, views the current production of Head Over Heels, which runs through June 1, as a festivity of the space. We’re celebrating 18 years and 54 productions at Source with a magical production of Head Over Heels, [which] is all about joy, hope, and community-and that’s what we hope our future is all about too.
Stockman also acknowledged the meaning of the Source Theatre to many in the D.C. arts scene: Many artists and audience members will miss Source’s intimate,flexible black-box space and the many worlds it has transformed into over the past nearly 50 years.
Pro Tip
Supporting local theatre can have a meaningful impact on the community. Consider attending performances, donating to theatre companies, or volunteering your time.
Constellation’s Mission
Constellation Theatre Company is committed to presenting impactful stories in an intimate setting. The company aims to ignite curiosity and imagination through plays and musicals from around the world, featuring visual spectacle, original music, dynamic movement, and passionate acting ensembles.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why is Constellation Theatre Company leaving the Source Theatre?
CulturalDC, the landlord, decided to sell the building to another nonprofit arts organization, and negotiations with Constellation were unsuccessful.
-
What will happen to Constellation Theatre Company?
The company will continue producing theatre and will announce its new location at a later date.
-
What was TheatreWashington’s role in this situation?
TheatreWashington spearheaded efforts to save the historic Source Theatre.
