From the Archives… UNSEEN FUTURES: BLOCK 57
RDT is currently in the process of inventorying, cataloging, and assessing our extensive archive including over 120 years of modern dance history and almost 60 years of company history. This archive preserves videos, photographs, and documentation of dance history to support our “living library” of dance for future generations of artists and art lovers.
In our 59th season of reflection, RDT participates in Utah State Archives Month to highlight “the future in the archives.” To stay connected:
- Follow our social media for features from our archive throughout the rest of October, exploring futures and dreams – realized and unrealized – for the arts in Salt Lake City.
- Sign up for our archive newsletter to continue receiving exclusive peeks into RDT’s history throughout the season.
This project is made possible through a grant from the Utah State Historical Records Advisory Board (USHRAB) and National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).
FROM THE ARCHIVE – Unseen Futures: BLOCK 57
The Brooks Arcade, part of Block 57, was located on the corner of 300 South and State Street and was owned by the Redevelopment Agency (RDA) of Salt Lake City.
In 1992 the PAC presented a detailed proposal to the RDA for how this space could be redesigned into a performing arts center. At first the RDA was supportive of the project, and it looked promising that the county would provide a portion of the funding. It seemed that a site for a new performing arts center had been secured, but this project required a large upfront cost even if the RDA granted the land to the PAC.
A funding feasibility study was conducted, and it was decided that even with support from the county, the PAC would not be able to raise the necessary funds to complete the project. The PAC was still unknown to the giving community as were many of the smaller arts groups included in its reach. More work needed to be done to grow community support, secure private donors, and make known the important mission of the PAC before this future could be realized.
Big picture design of potential Brooks Arcade renovation by Ivan Weber in 1990
Detailed blueprints by Ivan Weber in 1993 before the project was discarded
Follow along with us as we feature “futures from the archives” for Utah State Archives Month.
This project is made possible through a grant from the Utah State Historical Records Advisory Board (USHRAB) and the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).