The Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab at the Library for the Performing Arts
Fierstein Theatre Lab. Photo credit © Albert Vecerka/ESTO.
Located at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at the heart of Lincoln Center, the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab is designed to be a creative haven for new and current generations of performers, directors, actors, producers, and performing arts makers of all kinds to find their voices. The lab space can be used as a classroom, a screening room, a rehearsal space, and more–ultimately giving artists and researchers access to the Library’s incredible theater archives and resources, while providing space to create new work.
Coming Soon! How to Access the Lab
In 2025, the Library for the Performing Arts will host monthly information sessions where anyone can come learn how the Theatre Lab works and how the space can be used. Once a patron has completed the training, they will be eligible to request time in the Lab within the parameters that will be outlined in the training session.
To sign up for an upcoming information session, or to ask any questions about the Lab, email: theatrelab@nypl.org.
What is the Theatre Lab?
Fierstein Theatre Lab. Photo © Albert Vecerka/ESTO.
Designed by Rockwell Group and the LAB at Rockwell Group, the 770-square-foot flexible space features embedded tools and technology called the “Play Wall,” mobile work surfaces, a projection screen, and high-tech design visualization equipment. The Lab is a flexible theatrical space, equipped with:
- The Fierstein family’s own upright piano
- A fully functional lighting grid
- Acting blocks
- Folding chairs and tables that can be stored or used as needed
- An advanced surround sound system
- A 4K ultra short-throw projector
- Other tools for theatrical collaboration
The space can be configured to meet the needs of many types of performing artists, researchers, educators, and theater lovers.
Highlighting the Library’s resources, the Theatre on Film and Tape Archive’s thousands of Broadway and Off-Broadway recordings of theater productions from the 1970s to today will be available within the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab, providing artists and educators with the ability to read the words of playwrights who have come before, and to interact with video and archival content in creative ways.
Ways to Use the Lab
The Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab will be able to provide space for:
- Table readings, screenings and small performances
- Performance rehearsals with modular acting blocks, mobile work surfaces, a projection screen, and high-tech design visualization equipment
- Class visits, professional development, and peer-to-peer learning
- Performing arts research, such as viewing archival costume sketches alongside stills and video of the same production
- Writing, composing, developing new work
- Master classes with professional theatrical designers using the technology available in the Lab
Explore More
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