TO THE EDITOR:
While the use of the Forest Theatre has declined due to the convenience of modern, climate-controlled, multi-million dollar spaces, it is a misrepresentation to indicate that the beautiful and historic venue is not widely used.
The Forest Theater is a venue that musicians; student groups; drama, art, history and biology classes and couples getting married use. It is used by these groups on both small and large scales, and the calendar of events stays pretty full throughout the year.
It’s true that the venue is due for some renovations, and much of the framework or bones are there to be built upon. There are existing electrical lines running to the lighting towers, to the ticket booth and to the director’s box. There are signs that these structures were better cared for in previous days.
And while the lack of on-site equipment for lighting the stage and enhanced sound is perhaps a true shortcoming of the venue — I happen to take issue with the comment about acoustics; the design of the stage and the amphitheater is conducive to great, “unplugged” sound — the Forest Theater is still an exemplary outdoor performance space. To boot, it’s surrounded by the beautiful Piedmont forest.
The impending change to “restore” the Forest Theater will certainly retain its charm and some of its “challenges.” However, the restoration will aim to make the space even more agreeable to the demands of a modern performance.
Nick Adams
Battle Park and Forest Theatre Manager, North Carolina Botanical Garden
