NDI-NM Hiland Theater

Photos by MattO Photo

NDI New Mexico is founded with the knowledge that the arts have a unique power to engage and motivate children. The purpose of NDI-NM programs is to help children develop discipline, a standard of excellence, and a belief in themselves that will carry over into all aspects of their lives.

The historic Hiland Theater on Route 66 was renovated to provide an Albuquerque campus to serve this mission and while reviving the story of the original movie theater of the 1950s. This campus includes the renovation of the historic movie theater to a 600-seat live performance venue with sprung floor and stage systems, new dance studios, a refurbished historic lobby, an addition of backstage circulation, a scene shop, and administration areas and support spaces necessary to support the performances of over 500 children at times. The facility required a full renovation of all building systems as well as universal access upgrades.  

Phasing Plan

The project was completed in phases to accommodate various funding sources and availability.

Phase One includes the demolition for all phases of the project, and the renovation of 14,500sf to accommodate the initial dance studio floors, support space, temporary administrative office, and new HVAC and restrooms.

Phase Two utilized funding from an EDA grant and includes the renovation of 25,500sf to accommodate the fully equipped 600-seat theater, which may also be divided into two practice dance studios, the historic renovation of the entry lobby and public spaces and support spaces necessary to support the performances of over 500 children at times. This work included HVAC renovation for the theater and renovation of the patron restrooms.

Phase Three of the renovation includes 5,000sf of 2nd-floor administrative space and 5,000sf of dance studios and associated MEP systems. These studios double as backstage practice/waiting areas for the larger shows with audio and video monitors for the stage.

Client: National Dance Institute of New Mexico

Size: 50,000sf Renovation

Project design as Project Manager at Studio Southwest Architects (J. David Dekker-Architect of Record)