The Theatre District Alliance: It Takes a Village
The Hanover Theatre Member Newslestter, Fall 2016
Performing arts centers across the county serve as catalysts for the growth and cultural vitality of their communities. Much of the investment confidence felt in Worcester over the last eight and a half years can likely be attributed to the success of The Hanover Theatre.
The theatre’s impact is even more critical as development projects sprout up at a rate not seen in Worcester for 30 years. The theatre’s leadership role in the Theatre District Alliance is just one way it is expanding its impact. The theatre’s contribution beyond its immediate footprint and work with other stakeholders is revitalizing the city in tangible ways.
The theatre, in partnership with Worcester Business Development Corporation, established the alliance in October 2015 to bring cultural organizations, businesses, civic organizations and the City of Worcester together to collaborate on ways to tackle safety and quality of life issues within the district. An increase in police presence is one result of targeted advocacy by the alliance. Other areas of focus include signage, parking, placemaking, special events, promotions and marketing, as well as on-going economic investment and development in the district and downtown core.
Robust financial investment in downtown, coupled with the enthusiasm that is now palpable throughout the city, reinforces the Theatre District Alliance’s importance as an advocacy organization. Its unified voice addresses many of the needs of a rapidly changing city.
The Theatre District Block Party, the alliance’s first collaborative event, brought over 500 attendees to the Francis R. Carroll Plaza for a festive outdoor celebration in coordination with the theatre’s official ribbon cutting for 551 Main Street. The event was financially supported by members of the alliance who participated in its planning and execution.
As a founding member of the alliance, The Hanover Theatre continues its commitment to be a change agent for revitalization and sustained growth downtown.
“The WBDC is fortunate to have such an amazing partner in The Hanover Theatre. The Theatre District Alliance has proven to be a great collection of our area’s businesses as well as civic and cultural representatives, coming together for the common purpose of making our downtown neighborhood a great place to live, work and play.” – Craig Blais, president & CEO, Worcester Business Development Corp.