Iron Triangle dance center renovation continues

By Katherine Tam
Contra Costa Times
Posted: 12/06/2010 11:52:00 AM PST
Updated: 12/06/2010 11:52:20 AM PST

Large arch-topped windows illuminate a theater space as Ellen Lichtig, the Communications...

Renovation of the historic Winters Building in downtown Richmond continues, with a reopening set for spring.
The building is at least 72 years old and houses the East Bay Center for the Performing Arts, which provides art instruction to about 2,000 youths a year in disciplines that range from ballet to West African music and dance.
Once complete, the building will include two new 200-seat theaters and more instructional space. It will be structurally reinforced and meet fire safety codes.
The center recently earned a $1 million grant from the Kresge Foundation of Michigan, bringing it within $2 million of its $16 million fundraising goal. The center is working on raising a $650,000 match by June.
"This gift will not only be a catalyst to complete our fundraising campaign, but it will have a significant and measurable impact on the center's 2,000-plus students per year, on the 20,000 residents of the neighborhood known locally as the Iron Triangle, and on visitors throughout the surrounding region," said Jordan Simmons, artistic director.
Major partners for the project include the city and its redevelopment agency, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, and California Cultural and Historical Endowment.
For more details on the project, go to www.eastbaycenter.org.