Mi Casa, more Casa

One of Fort Worth’s legendary theaters is growing.

In its meeting Nov. 8, the Fort Worth City Council approved an agreement with Casa Manana Inc. for the construction of additional facilities at its location, 3101 W. Lancaster Ave. The city will fund 50 percent, or up to $409,000, from community partnership funds. The balance will be raised by Casa Manana through private donations for a total of about $800,000.

Planned improvements include an additional 2,100 square feet of office space, 1,500 square feet of storage, renovation of the original lobby and a 1,400-square-foot cabaret theater.

Casa Manana is planning to break ground on the expansion project in March.

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“I am thrilled that Casa is in a position to expand,” said President and Executive Producer Wally Jones. “These additions will not only increase our education initiatives, but allow us to better serve the community of North Texas.

“We greatly appreciate the city of Fort Worth and our donors for recognizing the need for the arts and for the belief in the mission of Casa Manana.”

Over the past several years, Casa Manana has experienced significant growth across its programs. Season ticket holders have increased for both the Broadway and Children’s Theatre series. Enrollment in many of the Performing Arts Conservatory programs is at capacity and the programs have significant waiting lists.

The construction project will be designed by Bennett, Benner Partners. The new office space will hold 11 offices and a conference room. The original lobby, which currently houses the administrative offices, will be renovated into an additional instruction space, cabaret theater and VIP donor reception area. The space will seat 50-60 patrons and include a small kitchen for catering preparation and a small stage for performances.

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“It is wonderful that our community and the city supports us so much that we can do this,” Jones said. “Casa Manana has been a big part of the Fort Worth community for a long time, and we love Fort Worth.”

Casa Manana, translated as House of Tomorrow, opened in 1936.

www.casamanana.org/