Cleo Parker Robinson Center for the Healing Arts

Mortenson was honored to partner with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD) and Fentress Architects for the transformative renovation and expansion of the CPRD Center for the Healing Arts. This project is a 23,000-square-foot addition to CPRD’s current home, formerly the Shorter AME Church, located at the intersection of Park Avenue West, East 20th Avenue, and Washington Street.

The expansion will more than double the existing facility, adding 23,000 square feet across four levels. A striking glass atrium, rising nearly three stories on the east side of the facility, will connect the historic Shorter AME Church with the new, above-ground three-level ADA-accessible addition.

This harmonious blend of historic and modern architecture will feature:

• A 240-seat underground performance venue with telescopic/scalable seating, a Green Room, and additional storage. The underground location provides natural soundproofing, making it a considerate neighbor in a bustling urban environment.
• Four spacious new dance studios designed to inspire creativity and movement.
• New dressing rooms, exercise, and locker rooms to support the needs of performers.
• A new reception area, café, and office facilities for administrative staff and workstations for theatre tenants.

The highly transparent, glass-paneled addition is designed to contrast with the historic blond brick façade of the Shorter AME Church. This respectful juxtaposition symbolizes CPRD’s mission: every action we perform is done with the intent to transform ourselves and others, to give a voice to the voiceless, and to leave a legacy of excellence and understanding.

The interior design will embrace this mission by incorporating windows that provide glimpses and light deep within the building, celebrating the intersection of old and new, and fostering spaces for quiet contemplation as well as dialogue.