The new MadLab

Popular Columbus theater troupe purchases new space (finally!)

By Dwayne Steward

Metromix

1688498

For the past decade, each year has brought the same resolution for the semi-professional crew at MadLab Theatre. They always wanted a new and improved space, with multiple bathrooms and enough space for an in-house scene shop.

As is the case with many non-profits, each year’s budget proved a disappointment where expansion was concerned.

Until now.

After six months of negotiations, the troupe happily closed a deal on a new space downtown at 227 N. Third Street in December, and the staff was elated to share the news with us.

“So, I’ve got some pretty big news for you,” said Andy Batt, MadLab’s managing director, his beaming smile noticeable even through the phone.

We were beaming too after hearing about the new theater’s specs. Multiple bathrooms will be a welcome change to the one we remember being shared by everyone during many an intermission at the current space on Grant Avenue.

But the rest rooms are not the only change. The garage space—receiving a hefty $70,000 renovation between January and March—is 50 percent larger and will also include the dream scene shop and much needed storage space for costumes.

MadLab has been leasing the Grant Avenue space since 1999, and with the move to Third Street they’ll be one of the few troupes in Columbus to own their theater.
 
While renovating during January and February, the company will also be packing up the Grant Avenue building, with a final 48-hour theater production and an introduction/farewell with the new 12-Hour Theatre of Love show Feb. 13, where they’ll create and stage a completely new production in only 12 hours.

The new space will open in March with their inaugural “Kill ‘em with Kindness Comedy Festival,” followed by the 11th Annual Theatre Roulette, which is their popular short plays festival.

“We’ve often complained about the space on Grant, but I can’t say that I won’t miss it,” Batt said. “We’ve had some good times there. I’m pretty sure I’m going to cry like a baby when we leave.”

To donate to the company's "Raise the Roof" renovation project, visit the recently upgraded MadLab Web site.