MadLab Moves to New Digs
By Lia Eastep |
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I can't say I wasn't warned.
"Things are pretty filthy over here," said MadLab Managing Director, Andy Batt, of the theater company's newly acquired 3,750-square-foot property on Third Street. Little did I know that the temperature would remain the same when I entered the gutted building. I walked in to find Batt, along with half a dozen dedicated ensemble members, huddled around an industrial heater and a freshly delivered pizza. They were waiting for the guy with the blowtorch to show up.
MadLab Managing Director, Andy Batt, getting the new location prepped
Photo: Chris Casella
Like any good theater story, this one involves a fair amount of drama. Batt said it was the parking lot attendant who casually informed them that they were losing their prior 2,400-square-foot space on Grant Avenue. The day I made a follow-up visit, the 700-pound exhaust fan had fallen through the ceiling. They'd also "found" a basement. Luckily, they had been putting money away toward obtaining their own space for four years, close to $50,000 worth.
Batt, who joined MadLab back in 2001, makes his living as an engineer. He has played a crucial role in the renovations. "We really did our homework on this one," he explained. "Having two general contractors on the board certainly helps."
While the new space will give the troupe almost 50 percent more seating, and an in-house scene shop, their goals remain modest.
"We are extremely adept at living within our means. We expect to run the same way we do now," Batt explained, "putting on shows, and providing opportunities to other artists around town."
MadLab plans to open its new doors at 227 N Third St. on March 12th to present The Cody Rivers Show, the first installment of the Kill 'Em with Kindness Comedy Festival. For more information visit www.madlab.net.
Originally Published: March 1, 2010
