Compared to facilities in peer communities, Needham’s three performance spaces are severely lacking both in seating capacity and the basic functionality necessary for a quality performing arts program.
Pollard Middle School:
Built in 1958, Pollard’s 434-seat auditorium lacks many essential spaces needed for safe and effective operation. It has no adequate backstage or wing space, dressing rooms, orchestra pit, fly space, or dedicated areas for costume and set building. Without proper lighting and sound booths, cables must be run across the auditorium, creating safety and functionality concerns.
Needham High School:
Originally built in 1930 with additions in 1955 and 1967 Needham Highs School has an auditorium which seats 535 (including 100 balcony seats, many with obstructed views). The auditorium was not part of the 2006 renovation that focused on expanding the gymnasium, library, cafeteria, classrooms, and parking. Like Pollard, it is missing many key features required for a fully functional performance venue.
Newman Elementary School:
Originally built as a middle school and renovated in 2012, Newman has a 563-seat auditorium which is used by Needham High School and Needham Community Theater as their main performance venues. However, it serves preschool, elementary, and afterschool programs, limiting access and creating significant scheduling and transportation challenges. Currently lighting and sound equipment have to be rented per show and temporarily installed creating increased expense, safety and functionality concerns.
Functionality Comparison
Capacity Comparison
To read the complete consultant study on the state of these auditoriums please visit our FAQ page or click here.
Pictured: Newman Stage (cracked), Pollard Electrical (fire-hazard), Pollard Sound Booth (cables exposed), Pollard Front Entrance (stairs only and lighting in walkway).
DID YOU KNOW?
Research conducted in 2023 found Needham’s school-based auditorium facilities were far below the standards observed in similar, neighboring towns.
As Superintendent Daniel Gutekanst, Ed.D., has noted: “The Needham Public Schools boast three theaters, but each one lacks the space and functionality required to meet our needs.”
Pollard Auditorium
Needham High School Auditorium
Newman Auditorium
The Needham theater community is talented and committed, but we lack decent performance spaces. The auditorium at Pollard is very problematic in terms of lighting, sound, stage and backstage space, and air quality. Compared to the buildings I work in as a teacher for the Natick Public Schools, it is abysmal.”
— Nicki Ramshaw, Needham parent and NCT performer
“The theatre education I received in Needham was stronger than that of many of my classmates in college. However, the overall learning experience was limited by the quality of the performance venues in Needham.”
— Jacob Grebber, NHS Class of 2019 and UNC- School of the Arts 2023 (Lighting Designer, currently on Broadway National Tour of “Hell’s Kitchen”)
