IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 1, 2007
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Curtain closes on successful renovation of campus theatre

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Slippery Rock University has completed a renovation to Sheehy Auditorium, restoring the 100-seat theater in the lower level of Maltby Center to its original glory.

            “Theater students have twice as much space for productions in a cavernous atmosphere with multi-stage levels and better stage echo,” said David Skeele, professor of theater. “I’d like to do Shakespeare in there.”

            The renovation was made possible when the robotics program relocated from the back of Sheehy to the University’s new Advanced Technology and Science Hall. SRU knocked out a wall and ripped up old carpet to recapture the original stage space. Workers painted everything black and added taller risers.

            Sheehy is suitable for audience-participation shows, experimental theater as well as performance and director classes, Skeele said.

            “It’s much better for student productions and it wouldn’t surprise me if theater faculty start doing shows there,” he said.

            The Maltby theater opened in 1938 and served at the primary space for campus productions until Miller Auditorium opened in 1958.

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.