Fiscally speaking, it may not be the easiest time to launch a large construction project. But yesterday the Brooklyn Academy of Music officially announced that it has started a $300 million fund-raising effort to expand its footprint with new buildings and also launch new artistic initiatives. Dubbed the BAM Next Stage Campaign, the institution's plan aims to support five years worth of programming and cement the area's standing as a growing cultural district.
"The campaign is bold and ambitious, just like BAM. Despite the current economic environment, we have already raised more than half of the campaign's $300 million goal," said campaign chair and board vice chair Adam E. Max in a press release.
In the works are a 263-seat theater—housed in a building designed by H3 Hardy Collaboration Architecture and named for Richard B. Fisher—a second cinematic complex with three screens and a gallery for exhibitions, and an upgrade to the existing Harvey Theater.
In addition to the facility development, the academy is also planning several events for the coming years, including an opera biennial celebration, a 10-day conference and festival dedicated to Muslim arts, and Bank of America-sponsored productions that partner BAM with London's Old Vic.
