Thomas MacMillan Photo
Applause filled City Hall’s aldermanic chamber as the city lowered the curtain on a 12-year run in show business.
The applause came Thursday night from city lawmakers and from an audience of Shubert Theater staff and supporters in the chamber gallery. It followed a unanimous vote by the Board of Aldermen to transfer ownership of the theater to CAPA, the not-for-profit organization that has been managing it.
City government took full ownership of the theater 12 years ago as part of an effort to keep the century-old venue afloat. The city is now selling it to CAPA for $1. The deal includes promises of 10 years of city subsidies to the theater, for operational and capital expenses.
Click here for a full explanation of the deal.
Finance Chair Andrea Jackson-Brooks moved the amendments.
Thursday’s vote came after Shubert staff handed out blue centennial celebration T‑shirts to most aldermen, and after the approval of two amendments to the deal to address concerns that arose during committee review.
The first amendment states that CAPA shall not mortgage the property while it’s still receiving money from the city. The second amendment states that if the city fails to pay the $1.4 million it has promised next year for capital improvements or the 10 years’ worth of operation subsidies it has promised, the city shall not be in default of the agreement. If the city does fail to pay, CAPA may adjust its capital improvements plan and its performance schedule, as long as it has at least 50 performances per year.
East Rock Alderwoman Jessica Holmes (pictured) rose to support the first amendment. She said CAPA has a “proven track record” operating the theater. “It’s in the city’s interest to see that the Shubert succeeds,” she said.
East Rock Alderman Justin Elicker rose to support the second amendment. Aldermen approved both amendments unanimously, then approved the sale with no further discussion.
After the vote, Downtown Alderman Doug Hausladen said he is happy all the questions that came up in committee were answered. Hausladen was one of three lawmakers who voted against sending the deal to the full board for a vote. He wanted more time for public testimony on the mortgage and future-payment aspects of the deal.
Hausladen said the amendments addressed his concerns. He said “downtown is grateful” for the Shubert, which attracts a lot of business into the city.
It brings $20 million of business to New Haven every year, according to John Fisher, the theater’s executive director.
“Long story short, we’re out of the theater business in 10 years,” said Hausladen.