Stars Help the Public Theater Break Ground on Massive New Makeover

The Public Theater is getting a makeover! On March 9, Public board members (and board-trotters) Liev Schreiber and Sam Waterston, a gaggle of the company's starry stage alums and dozens of downtown supporters gathered at the organization's Lafayette Street space for a ceremonial groundbreaking, signaling the official kick-off of a renovation 10 years in the making. "This beloved building will become more accessible and more comfortable for our audiences, artists and staff, but will remain one of the most vibrant theater spaces in the world," Executive Director Andrew D. Hamingson said. The $35 million overhaul will include a facelift for the historic facade outside the building, a refurbished lobby, glass canopy, new mezzanine level and lounge and, perhaps most importantly, a 350% increase in restroom facilities inside the building. (Joe's Pub fans take note: the performance space will also get a new entrance and double-size kitchen.) We snapped some shots of the groundbreaking event, and can't wait to snap even more onc the Public's "before" becomes "after."