Oversight of the new direction of the Lincoln Theatre has been delegated to the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities

From a press release:

“Today, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, Victor L. Hoskins took the first step in moving the Lincoln Theatre towards a new long-term sustainable plan for the future. Oversight of the new direction of the Lincoln Theatre has been delegated to the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH), the District’s agency for arts and culture.

“Creating a long-term sustainable structure for the management and operations of the theatre is one of the District’s highest priorities. I felt it was important to move in that direction by asking DCCAH to develop a comprehensive plan for its future operations in consultation with community members and the outstanding arts related organizations we have in the city,” said Victor Hoskins, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development. Mr. Hoskins continued, “With less and less resources in the city, we must be diligent in our fiduciary responsibilities regarding all District-owned assets.”

Future plans include the introduction of an artistic director to facilitate the long-term artistic vision for the theatre and work on needed upgrades within the theatre itself.

“I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the U Street Theatre Foundation for their support of the Lincoln Theatre. The DCCAH is embracing the opportunity make this once great theatre a valued treasure in the city again,” said Lionell Thomas, Executive Director for the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

The Lincoln Theatre, built in 1922, has featured some of the most influential entertainers in American history, including Duke Ellington, Pearl Bailey, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday, Nat King Cole, Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, and Sarah Vaughn who performed regularly.”

We spoke about the Lincoln Theatre’s troubles here and here. Does placing oversight with the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities a good idea?