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Save the Amphitheater, Don't Demolish It

1,492 Comments

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Keith Thomas
11 years ago

Preserve the history !

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Joan Rosenthal
11 years ago

I am very pleased that preservation specialists are now being engaged to determine what parts of the amp can be retained while making the necessary improvements. One aspect of the new design I really think is necessary is the redoing of the steep ramps. There have been too many people falling or unable to sit near the bottom because of the steep decline. Steps like those at the Bratton Theater are much more accessible. And lets keep this discussion civil.

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Rob K.
11 years ago

Responsible planning and adaptive re-use CAN BE A POSSIBILITY!! Save the Amp!!

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Leslie Griewahn
11 years ago

I've come to Chautauqua since I was an infant now return yearly with my husband and young family members for what few traces of traditional Chautauqua remain (the warm glow of lights surrounding the Amp during evening performances, the personal interactions at the Gazebo and being able to sit on benches beside it, the lovely bridge behind the Amp, the flags proudly hung on the back wall...) How sad that a few people have chosen to destroy a legacy rather than be good stewards of what was there long before them and should remain long after they've moved on. The Institution solicits funds which are then hemorrhaged on projects such as the Visitor's Center above the Book Store, and now the Amp. Don't demolish the Amp but provide necessary structural enhancements so future generations may cherish it. For $30 million you should be able to do that. Traditions = more revenue.

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Richard B. ROss
11 years ago

Chautauqua Institution - do what youj can to preserve the integrity of the historic amphithreatre and accomplish most of the goals that you have set out to improve the amphitjheatre experience

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Joanne G. Allen
11 years ago

Please keep the Amp. It's wonderful!

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elizabeth lasser
11 years ago

"Our (community)sleeping lion has been awakened! We are ROARING!!

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Michael McCormick
11 years ago

Washington High School Steel Band Member, played in the Amp for three performances; couldn't imaging Chautauqua without it!

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Judy Williams
11 years ago

Cottage owners must unite to stop this needless destruction. Money could be spent to IMPROVE facilities and lessen the burdensome gate fees for all.t

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Jean Isroe
11 years ago

I would like to see the original structure retained. However, more comfortable seating is needed and obstructed views of the stage need to be addressed.

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Martha Carnahan
11 years ago

Thank you all, your comments are encouraging!

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nell lucas
11 years ago

fully support the efforts

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Albert D. Salvo
11 years ago

I am glad our voices have temporarily stopped the ignorant plan to level the historic heart of Chautauqua. Use our money more wisely,

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Laura Pancake
11 years ago

why why why?

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Terry Shields
11 years ago

It is pitiful how the "color of money" will over ride what the majority of people want. This is tragic. Renovations are needed but total demolition is a travesty.

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Lisa M. Feinstein
11 years ago

We really want t o tear down the ampitheater in which FDR delivered his "I Hate War" speech in 1936? That's stupid.

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Brenda thayer
11 years ago

Restore please. This is the heart of our community and deserves this treatment

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Lee Kessler
11 years ago

Whenever one can restore, one should. The amphitheatre represents the legacy of Chautauqua across the generations.

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Ken Lewis
11 years ago

The amp is a big part of the 'chautauqua experience!

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William Birskovich Helene Yurth
11 years ago

Disregard of the past has become a policy mindset at Chautauqua this past decade or so.