Senate Resolution No. 1930

BY: Senator WEBB

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the Hangar
Theatre and recognizing its enduring contributions
to the cultural and artistic life of the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those institutions whose purpose and achievements contribute to
the cultural vitality and enrichment of their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Hangar Theatre; and

WHEREAS, Founded in a converted World War II-era airplane hangar,
the Hangar Theatre opened its doors on July 11, 1975, with a production
of Man of La Mancha, made possible through more than a decade of
dedicated effort by impassioned citizens of Ithaca, New York; and

WHEREAS, The original transformation of a municipal airport hangar
into a vibrant cultural institution was realized through the combined
efforts of the Ithaca Repertory Theatre, later renamed the Hangar
Theatre Company in 1978, Cornell University, Ithaca College, and the
City of Ithaca, along with the support of a grant from Nelson
Rockefeller; and

WHEREAS, Over the past five decades, the Hangar Theatre has grown
into a year-round venue of national prominence, known for producing
performances of exceptional quality while serving as a vital training
ground for emerging theatre artists; and

WHEREAS, The Hangar Theatre's mission is to create and present
performances of exceptional quality in New York's Finger Lakes region
while training the next generation of theatre artists, inspiring its
community with work and classes that enrich, entertain, and enlighten,
and affirming its belief in the transformative power of theatre; and

WHEREAS, Its vision as an artistic home nurturing a lifelong love of
the performing arts is reflected in its dedication to excellence,
education, and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, Guided by its core values of gratitude, generosity,
equality, inclusion, diversity, quality, and integrity, the Hangar
Theatre has fostered an environment that uplifts both artists and
audiences alike; and

WHEREAS, Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to accessibility, the
Hangar Theatre strives to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment
for all patrons, offering accommodations and ensuring that all
individuals may enjoy performances in safe and supportive surroundings;
and

WHEREAS, In 2010, the successful completion of the "Hangar for All
Seasons" capital campaign achieved its $4.6 million goal, enabling a

full renovation of the facility and establishing a permanent, year-round
home for the theatre while expanding its capacity to host a wide range
of events, from folk concerts to opera galas; and

WHEREAS, The Hangar Theatre stands today as a testament to visionary
leadership, community collaboration, and resilience, supported by
countless individuals including professional artists, educators,
volunteers, local businesses, and public officials, whose collective
efforts have made it an essential part of the quality of life in the
region; and

WHEREAS, The Hangar Theatre is a rare institution born not solely
from artistic ambition, but from the passion and dedication of an entire
community, embodying the spirit and identity of Ithaca itself; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the Hangar Theatre has remained
committed to both artistic excellence and education, playing a pivotal
role in the regional theatre movement and continuing to inspire
generations through performances and training programs that enrich,
entertain, and enlighten; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Hangar Theatre, recognizing its
outstanding contributions to the arts, education, and cultural heritage
of the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Hangar Theatre.