MUR Update: discussion ensues on proposed Theater lounge

The Theater lounge space was designed keeping student concerns in mind. The area hopes to provide a casual and comfortable environment where all students can feel welcome to study and relax. But the Theater lounge addition will also act as a necessary lobby space for Theater patrons. A small bar area will be available to theater patrons so the theater can function as an updated space. “As it is, the theater is too small, and the ability to buy a refreshment at intermission and stretch your legs is something today’s theater patrons expect,” said Colin. “We hope this addition will help the theater grow and flourish.”

The Wisconsin Union is a non-profit organization that operates free from tax dollars, and Union staff often must remind others that they do not cater to private interests or for-profit events.

Associate director Hank Walter said the additions will help the Wisconsin Union Theatersucceed and grow. “We don’t operate the Theater to make money,” said Hank. “We do it because it fits with the Union’s missions and values. The Theater, or any events here, are absolutely not about profit.”

Currently, the Theater space and seating capacity do not fit industry standards. The Theater houses 1,300 seats with a lobby that only accommodates about 100 to 200 people at once. When compared to the seating capacity, the theater falls short of industry standards by about 4,000 square feet for total space requirements. The Theater addition was created to address space and functionality concerns, as well as to operate as much needed student lounge space.

With all of the attention focused on one specific element of the project, design committeemembers are concerned people are forgetting about the overall goal of the project. Much of the Reinvestment funds are being used to update old heating and cooling systems, renovate interior spaces and address accessibility concerns.

Another ideological part of the project is dedicated to highlighting the Memorial Union’s unique history. Design team members have worked closely with the Wisconsin State Historical Society to ensure every piece of the project does not affect the historical integrity of the building. Because Memorial Union resides in a Wisconsin historical district, the Wisconsin Historical Society holds  jurisdiction on deciding which renovations and additions are acceptable. They follow state statutes which are in place to ensure historical buildings are preserved and their integrity remains uncompromised. For example, the decision to use glass for the proposed theater lounge addition follows a statute requiring the original lines of the Memorial Union building to remain visible and obvious. The Wisconsin Historical Society has approved of the design and structure of the proposed Theater addition.

Colin wanted to remind all students and Union members to be careful about what they hear and where they get their information. In addition, he said all decisions put forth are mandated by the design committee, which holds a student majority. “Think about everything logically. Does anyone honestly believe we as students would do anything to reduce seating, views or take away from the Terrace?” said Colin. “Everybody, especially those working on the project, are working to enhance the building not take anything away.”

Check out a video of Director Mark Guthier’s tour of the Memorial Union and comments on the reinvestment project, which aired on NBC 15 on Sept. 26. 

For a student viewpoint on the Theater lounge addition, please read a recent Daily Cardinal article by UW Madison junior Jaime Brackeen.

More Information:

For more information about the Memorial Union Reinvestment project, please visit:

Memorial Union Reinvestment project website

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