“We are so pleased to be able to play a part in bringing this incredible building to Washington. Molly Smith’s artistic vision is truly inspiring, and Bing Thom’s remarkable design brings her vision to life in a very special way. We look forward to many wonderful performances at Arena Stage for years to come, and to seeing the impact Arena can have on the American Theater movement.”
     – Gilbert and Jaylee Mead

“More than 50 years ago, the founders of Arena Stage launched a regional theater with a unique artistic vision. Today, as we look to the future, we imagine the next evolution of Arena: a national center devoted to the development, creation, and study of the American theatrical canon. Join us as we celebrate a landmark in the nation’s capital, a catalyst for community, a new home for Arena’s next 50 years.”
     – Molly Smith, Artistic Director

"All of the changes along the Waterfront and the Anacostia River are exciting and will make our city better. I have been proud to work with Arena Stage in the past, and I appreciate their commitment to this neighborhood. This project is yet another sign of progress in our city, and I look forward to visiting the new Arena."
     – Former Mayor Anthony Williams

"Arena Stage continues to be the indispensable anchor of the District's efforts to redevelop the Southwest Waterfront. Once completed, Arena's new theater complex immediately will become a signature piece of waterfront architecture not just in Washington but in the country itself -- drawing theater patrons and architecture enthusiasts alike. However, the benefits of the new Arena are not limited to the obvious economic and cultural benefits. I am pleased the new space will allow Arena to strengthen its award-winning community engagement programs, which have become so integral to our community. Bravo Arena Stage!"
     – Former D.C. City Councilmember Sharon Ambrose

“I’ve watched Washington transform from a sleepy provincial arts outpost to the second most active theater scene in this country. It didn’t happen overnight, and Arena Stage was the seed from which that growth occurred.”
     – The Late Robert Prosky

“We have envisioned the space between the new theaters as crossroads of exchange for the community. The design of the lobby will inspire the audience to be patrons, actors and observers, simultaneously thereby creating the natural drama that occurs during a memorable night at Arena.”
     – Architect Bing Thom

“The Next Stage Campaign will create and showcase a new building and more. It also moves Arena Stage one step closer to becoming the national center for the creation of American work.”
     – John M. Derrick, Jr., Past Chair of the Arena Stage Board of Trustees

"I have worked hard in the Congress to maximize federal development opportunities along the Anacostia — from the Navy Yard to the Southeast Federal Center to Poplar Point. Arena Stage, which, I am grateful, stayed in Southwest rather than be lured to other parts of the city, has been an important and indispensable partner in my efforts to spur revitalization along the District's long-neglected river. I am delighted that Arena Stage is moving forward with the final, public phase of its campaign for a breathtaking new theater complex on the Southwest waterfront, which will attract even greater numbers of District residents and tourists to this Washington institution."
     – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

"People will come to look at, as well as be in, this building. Its transparency will be compelling day or night. Striking structural elements, such as towering mast-like wood columns, fit the setting perfectly. The assortment of buildings will form an enticing little cityscape."
     – Benjamin Forgey, Former Chief Architecture Critic, The Washington Post

A home for artists the new Arena Stage will become the world class facility for actors, directors, designers and their community, enhancing its already extraordinary reputation amongst the very best artists working in theater today.
     –Brad Oscar, Artist