Boston Theatre Begins Work On New East Wing

The expansive addition is on track to open in approximately one year from now.

By Benjamin Pierce, Patch Staff

Oct 21, 2026 3:44 PM EDT

The East Wing is slated to feature expanded lobbies, a ticketing concierge, patron amenities, and flexible performance spaces, along with a bar, lounge, and cafe. (Beacon Bank)

BOSTON, MA — A theatre is expanding with new performance spaces and public gathering areas coming to Huntington Avenue.

The Huntington has begun construction on its East Wing, a 14,000-square-foot addition expected to open in fall 2027. The space will occupy the first two floors of The Lyra, the adjacent Toll Brothers residential tower, and connect to the theatre's historic mainstage home at 264 Huntington Ave.

The project is moving forward following the completion of a financing package from Beacon Bank, including a $21.25 million tax-exempt bond issued by MassDevelopment and purchased by the bank. The package also includes more than $15 million in additional lending to support the theatre's long-term success.

The East Wing will feature expanded lobbies, a ticketing concierge, patron amenities, and flexible performance spaces, along with a bar, lounge, and cafe. Plans also include an outdoor balcony overlooking Huntington Avenue. The fully accessible addition will provide spaces for both theatre patrons and the public, with programming beyond the theatre's mainstage productions.

According to The Huntington, the goal is for the new wing to open daily throughout the year. The space will accommodate artistic collaborations, cultural programming, and expanded education and community engagement opportunities.

"Beacon Bank's deep expertise and responsiveness allowed us to focus on what matters most: Expanding access to the arts and creating meaningful spaces for community connection and engagement," Huntington Executive Director Chris Mannelli said in a statement. "The bank took the time to understand not only the details of this project, but also the pivotal role The Huntington plays in the life of our community."

The expansion will complete a decade-long transformation of the property following the reopening of the renovated historic theatre in 2022. Bruner/Cott, the architecture firm behind that renovation, is designing the East Wing with input from Artistic Director Loretta Greco. The new spaces are being designed to accommodate performances and informal gatherings during the day and evening.

The theatre also announced a $25,000 art commission in September for a large wall installation near the new artistic spaces and bar. Submissions will be evaluated anonymously by a group of community stakeholders, and the selected artist is expected to complete and install the work by the end of August 2027.

The Huntington's second-phase fundraising campaign has a $50 million goal for capital and endowment needs. According to its campaign website, 60 percent of the goal has been secured, and endowment goals have been met, with fundraising now focused on completing the expansion.

"The Huntington's expansion will help shape the future of Boston, creating spaces at one of Boston's great cultural institutions where creativity, community and culture can thrive together," David L'Heureux, division head of commercial lending for Beacon Bank's Boston region, said in a statement.

According to the bank, the financing allows construction to proceed on the project's planned timeline. MassDevelopment also previously supported the expansion through the Cultural Facilities Fund, which it jointly administers with the Mass Cultural Council.

The Huntington operates the Huntington Theatre and the Calderwood Pavilion. In addition to its productions, the company offers education and community programs, develops playwrights and new plays, and provides resources for the local arts community.