Square Foot Theatre Company announced its expansion this week to now include a bar and lounge. The company took over the space adjacent to its current location, formally occupied by Yale Billiards, and has been undergoing renovations since the first of the year.

The addition includes a new patron entrance and lobby, with a separate bar area, and 1,500 square foot lounge. “Our company began this journey 12 years ago in the hopes of creating a safe space where actors of all ages can be themselves in a nurturing environment. The new Square Foot Tavern allows us to broaden that atmosphere to the greater community,” said Jared Andrew Brown, Executive Director and Co-Founder. “This space is not just for our actors, patrons, and theatre-lovers. Our living room atmosphere welcomes all to bring their own food, order their favorite drink, and grab a board game to play with family and friends.”

“As we watched actors and patrons linger after our performances, we were inspired to create a space where people can continue to enjoy their night without feeling pressured to leave,” added Michelle O’Brien, President of the Board of Directors. “While the project was a huge undertaking for our small non-profit, the Board agreed it was a perfect opportunity to expand our intimate theatre atmosphere for the community to enjoy beyond production weeks and allow our actors more opportunities to share their craft.”

The venue will feature karaoke nights, Sunday Drag shows, and viewing parties. The added space will also serve as an outlet for actors to be able to test their audition material to patrons before catching their “big break.” It will also be available for private events. The theatre space, with intimate cabaret style seating will remain the same, except patrons will only be allowed to bring in food, with full bar available on site.

The bar and lounge are set to open on April 5 with a grand opening on April 7. After Opening Weekend, the tavern will be open six days a week. (Excluding Mondays).