Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc.

Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc.
Name	Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc.
Founded	0 2004
Location	Washington, D.C.
Key people	Curtis Symonds, Sheila C. Johnson
Focus	Historic preservation, arts, community development

Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc. is a non-profit organization established to lead the historic preservation and revitalization of the iconic Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C.. Founded in 2004, the organization spearheaded a multi-year, multi-million dollar campaign to restore the legendary venue, which had fallen into severe disrepair after closing in the 1980s. Its work culminated in the theatre's grand reopening in 2012, returning a cornerstone of African American cultural history to the Shaw neighborhood and the city's performing arts landscape. The organization continues to support the theatre's operations and its role as a community anchor.

History and founding

The formation of Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc. was a direct response to the decades-long deterioration of the historic Howard Theatre, a National Register of Historic Places landmark that opened in 1910. After the theatre's closure in the 1980s, the structure suffered from significant water damage, vandalism, and neglect, despite its storied past as a premier venue on the Chitlin' Circuit. Key figures in the Washington, D.C. business and philanthropic communities, including founding board members like Curtis Symonds and benefactor Sheila C. Johnson, recognized the urgent need for intervention. The organization was formally incorporated in 2004 to coordinate the complex financial, architectural, and community planning required for a full restoration, partnering with entities like the District of Columbia Government and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Mission and objectives

The core mission of the organization is to preserve, restore, and sustainably operate the Howard Theatre as a vibrant performing arts center and educational resource. Its primary objectives include maintaining the architectural and historical integrity of the building as designed by J. Edward Storck, while adapting it for modern use. A central goal is to honor the theatre's legacy by presenting a diverse array of programming that reflects its rich history in jazz, blues, R&B, and go-go music. Furthermore, the organization is committed to serving as an economic catalyst and community hub within the Shaw neighborhood, fostering educational outreach and cultural enrichment for residents of Washington, D.C..

Restoration and renovation

The restoration project, managed by Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc., was a monumental $29 million endeavor that involved a complete gut rehabilitation of the dilapidated structure. The organization collaborated with lead architect Martinez + Johnson Architecture and construction firm Whiting-Turner Contracting Company to execute the sensitive historic preservation. Key challenges included reconstructing the original terra cotta façade, recreating the iconic marquee and blade sign, and restoring interior Art Deco details while integrating state-of-the-art acoustics and theatrical systems. The project also expanded the facility to include new support spaces, making it compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Critical funding came from a mix of New Markets Tax Credits, federal grants, and private donations.

Programming and community impact

Since the reopening, programming at the Howard Theatre has encompassed a wide spectrum of performances, from legendary artists like Smokey Robinson and Wynton Marsalis to contemporary acts in hip hop and comedy. The organization supports the theatre's role in hosting community events, film screenings, and educational workshops that connect with local schools and organizations. Its presence has been credited with contributing to the ongoing economic revitalization along the 7th Street corridor, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses. The theatre also serves as a venue for events during the annual DC Jazz Festival and other citywide cultural celebrations.

Governance and leadership

The organization is governed by a board of directors composed of community leaders, business executives, and preservation advocates. Founding Chairman Curtis Symonds provided early strategic direction, while major philanthropic support came from Sheila C. Johnson, a co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET). Day-to-day management of the theatre's operations and programming is typically handled by a dedicated management company or venue operator under the oversight of the board. This governance structure ensures that the artistic vision and financial sustainability of the Howard Theatre align with the organization's preservation mission and its commitments to the District of Columbia.

Financial support and fundraising

The restoration was financed through a complex public-private partnership orchestrated by Howard Theatre Restoration, Inc. Major funding sources included federal New Markets Tax Credits allocated through the City First Bank of D.C., a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and historic preservation tax credits. Significant private donations were secured from individuals like Sheila C. Johnson and corporations such as AT&T. Ongoing financial support for programming and operations is derived from ticket revenue, venue rentals, corporate sponsorships, and continued philanthropic fundraising efforts aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of this historic Washington, D.C. institution.

Category:Non-profit organizations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Arts organizations based in Washington, D.C. Category:Historic preservation in the United States