Encinitas may get new performing arts center

  • 2015-06-30
Encinitas may soon have a brand new performing arts center.

The city council has agreed to start lease negotiations with the Intrepid Theatre Company. These exclusive talks are the result of Intrepid's desire to build a theater at the Encinitas Ranch Town Center, where the city owns a theater pad that has been vacant for years.

The theater company, led by Cristy Yael-Cox, its producing artistic director, is asking for a 55-year lease for $1 per year. This would enable the company to build a 130-seat theater, which it plans to do in the next 12-18 months. Six to eight years after that, it plans to enlarge the complex. Under Intrepid's proposal, Encinitas would cover the cost of installing utilities, as well as paying the theater's annual utility bill, which is estimated to be $11,000.

Yael-Cox notes that Intrepid is San Diego County's most rapidly-growing theater company, and that it has already developed a following in Encinitas. In addition, the company, which puts on a mix of modern plays and Shakespearean works, has proven to be a success with critics. Encinitas residents have been very enthusiastic in their support for this venture.

The Encinitas City Council might consider working with brochure printers on a booklet to be mailed to residents, discussing the proposal and asking for further community input.