Studio Theatre Breaks Ground On $20M Modernization Project

WASHINGTON, DC — Studio Theatre broke ground on Open Studio, a $20 million investment in the four-theater complex in Logan Circle.

The Open Studio project will involve the complete reengineering of Studio Theatre’s largest theater on the ground floor. Following renovations, the theater will reopen as the Victor Shargai Theatre, renamed to commemorate Studio Theatre's former board member and a champion of the D.C. theater scene.

The theater will adjoin more open public space and a first-floor lounge, furnished through a partnership with Design Within Reach, which is also outfitting the entire building.

The Open Studio project at Studio Theatre, at 14th and P Streets NW, was delayed by nearly a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Studio Theatre hopes to open for audiences for the 2021-2022 theater season. The renovation project is expected to be fully completed in early 2022.

Lorton-based RĀKO Coffee Roasters will join Studio Theatre as its cafe partner. The woman-owned company, founded by sisters Lisa and Melissa Gerben, uses sustainably sourced, locally roasted coffees. RĀKO will also manage concessions for Studio Theatre.

In the afternoon and at night, RĀKO will serve wines, craft beer and cocktails, as well as food. The 1,100-square-foot cafe will be on the first floor with direct access to P Street, where RĀKO’s will have a 66-seat patio.

"The last year has felt like a suspended reality for those working in theatre,” Studio Theatre Artistic Director David Muse said in a statement. "It’s heartening that at the end of this year of unpredictability and tumult for our field, that Studio will open its doors on a new chapter and fresh start."

Studio Theatre, an institution in the local theater scene, produces contemporary plays in a four-stage complex. The theater has occupied space at 14th and P Streets NW since 1978. The complex was last renovated in 2004, when Studio Theatre expanded into two adjacent buildings and added two theater spaces.

Partners on the Open Studio project are architects Hickok Cole, theatrical and acoustic consultants Charcoalblue, builder Forrester Construction, and project managers JM Zell Partners. The project is being financed by Sandy Spring Bank.