Nashua Center for the Arts

Nashua’s Center for the Arts is an adaptive reuse project set to offer southeastern New Hampshire a community-centered, culturally sophisticated venue sure to attract internationally renowned and homegrown performers alike. This state-of-the-art facility leverages extendable seating to provide highly flexible configurations that respond to the specific requirements of a wide range of events.

Built in 1938 as a shoe store, the new Center for the Arts is the subject of two decades of civic advocacy and the recipient of $25 million in donations. Working at the behest of the City of Nashua and in partnership with ICON Architecture, OTJ brought to life an exacting design concept for a highly adaptable cultural gathering space set to revitalize the region’s artistic and economic landscape. The adjustable venue is ideally suited for musicals and concerts and can accommodate 750 patrons spread across orchestra, balcony, and parterre zones in comfortably upholstered chairs.

During banquets, galas, conferences, and smaller theatrical productions, an automated feature allows 400 seats in the orchestra to contract neatly into a holding area beneath the balcony. In this configuration, the capacity ranges from 250 for banquets to 1,000 patrons for standing room events. Modern bathrooms and a concessions area are easily accessible on the second floor, while an exclusive VIP lounge and balcony on the third floor look out onto historic Main Street. These diversified offerings are supported with ample backstage and support space for the creative and management team. Lastly, while the venue has retained its original façade through the years, curbside appeal is enhanced with radiant new yellow and white frontage. Already acclaimed for its excellent acoustics, the Center is quickly becoming a cultural landmark.