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Frank Thompson Building:
Future
“When I was
a student, the Frank Thompson Gymnasium was by far the building
most used by students. One of the most important roles the
building played in my life, and in the lives of many students,
was that it was where we met our lifetime partners —
listening and dancing to some of the top bands at dances sponsored
by campus fraternities. I’m delighted that plans are
underway to give old Frank Thompson Gymnasium a long overdue
face lift!”
— James C. Frink, Class of 1938, Raleigh, NC
While Thompson is certainly showing its
age, the university’s arts programs have thrived and
continue to form an integral part of the NC State student
experience. The campaign to preserve Thompson envisions a
complete renovation and expansion that will transform the
former gymnasium into a multifaceted, first-class center for
theatre, dance and crafts:
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A new two-story wing
will add more than 12,000 square feet, providing much-needed
rehearsal and classroom space for University Theatre and
creating for the first time a permanent home for our nationally
recognized NC State Dance program
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Restored Palladian
windows will yield magnificent aesthetic results, filling
Thompson once again with
natural light
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The addition of gallery
exhibition space to the Main Theatre lobby will provide
patrons with the opportunity to view works from the Gallery
of Art & Design’s permanent collection
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Newly renovated, state-of-the-art
Main and Studio theatres will enrich the learning experience
for students and the theatrical experience for audience
members
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Enhanced soundproofing
and structural improvements will allow multiple performances
and activities to occur simultaneously (something that
isn’t possible now), thus generating additional
revenues for the arts programs
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Newly configured and
outfitted studio space in The Crafts Center will provide
safer, more efficient, state-of-the-art working areas
for students
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Vastly improved access
and the addition of an assisted listening system will
make Thompson safer and more welcoming for people with
disabilities
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The addition of air
conditioning throughout the building, expanded and beautified
restroom facilities and a centralized ticketing office
will improve patrons’ comfort and convenience
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