The Chautauqua Amphitheatre is one of the best remaining examples of 19th century outdoor theatre architecture in America. The names of historical figures that have lectured and performed in this building are second to none. In addition to its architectural significance, the Chautauqua Amphitheatre has been part of the Institute’s cultural fabric for more than 100 years. This venerable building, along with the entire Chautauqua Movement has been widely respected, embraced, and loved by Americans across the country.
Renovation and adaptive reuse is the greenest kind of development! While refinements may be needed for public safety and production the enhancements can be introduced in a minimal and imaginative way. Recently released engineering reports state the building is stable. The Amphitheatre is a notable and irreplaceable piece of the community’s and the nation’s theatre history. Future generations deserve the opportunity to experience its unique presence.
The significance of the Amphitheatre’s architectural and cultural relevance cannot be overstated. Demolishing this historic structure and replacing it with a modern replica represents a tragic and unnecessary loss of a historically significant and much loved national treasure. heatre Historical Society of America joins members of the community and preservation organizations expressing concern for the future of this nationally significant architectural and cultural landmark. In 2015 the National Trust for Historic Preservation named the Chautauqua Amphitheatre one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Places. On 29 August 2015 the Chautauqua Institution Board of Directors will vote on a plan that favors demolishing the Amphitheatre despite preservation organizations and concerned groups presenting a comprehensive and viable plan for rehabilitation of the historic structure.
“The aura of history that fills a structure like the Chautauqua Amphitheatre is intangible yet unmistakable. If it is lost it can have no true replacement. A replica building, no matter how carefully designed, would inevitably be sterile. The original’s spirit would be gone; its irreplaceable soul lost forever. The Theatre Historical Society of America celebrates our nation’s rich heritage of theater buildings. Future generations deserve the opportunity to experience its unique presence.” Craig Morrison, AIA, Theatre Historical Society of America Board President, Theatre Scholar
