The Hanna Theatre project consisted of the complete renovation of a historic theater that was originally constructed in 1921. The original theater was designed by architect Charles A. Platt with a Pompeian theme, and includes intricate coffered plaster ceilings, ornate private boxes, and faux travertine wall finishes.  
 

The intent of the renovation was to create a visionary new space for the theater, which integrates the lobby and performance stage into one “Great Room.”   The design features a new thrust pit with a fully flexible hydraulic thrust stage, which allows the Great Lakes Theater Festival to present performances in two different configurations: a traditional proscenium layout and a thrust layout. The revised theater space also includes 48 fully automated motorized line sets to allow for dynamic set changes.

The project celebrates the historic nature of the building by restoring the decorative plaster walls and ceilings, refurbishing the original decorative metal entries and transoms and restoring the original decorative lighting fixtures.

The project is expected to achieve a LEED Silver-CI Certification from the United States Green Building Council.