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The Expansion
The Charles began its metamorphosis in winter of 1997, when Alex Castro of
Castro/Arts designed the structural renovations. Architect Joe Adamczyk teamed
with Castro to work out the many complex dimensional challenges. All aspects of
the expansion had to comply with the existing structure of the buildings;
theatre owners James Cusack and John Standiford wanted to preserve as much of
the two buildings'original beauty as possible. The original auditorium remains
intact, thanks to the structural integrity of the buildings. The North building
posesses a very high ceiling, with trusses spanning its entire width, which
eliminated the need for view-obstructing support posts in the screening rooms.
Instrumental in the expansion process was Jon Maxwell, a former projectionist
and plant manager at The Charles. Maxwell left the theatre in 1993 to pursue
carpentry and metal work. He joined forces with Castro to design the new
concession stand and box office,and manufactured both. Construction began in
March of 1998, and the expansion was complete one year later.
more about The Charles
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