Principal & Director of Arts at GBBN
Little known fact: Marcene came this close to studying theater tech instead of architecture. Maybe that's why she has such an affinity for producer, performer, and patron. As Director of Arts at GBBN, Marcene uses architecture and design to create a sense of belonging, inclusion, and well-being in the arts. She helps organizations use space and building design to achieve their goals and make positive impacts in their communities. Recent projects include the Margaret and Michael Valentine Center for Dance, the Cincinnati Art Museum, and the Andrew J Brady ICON Center for Music.
Marcene's ongoing research into common space and how it can amplify accessibility and equity across cultural groups informs GBBN's design approach to theaters, museums, dance studios, and performance venues. This research has led her to explore how architecture can break down traditional barriers to the LGBTQIA community and better embrace non-binary expression.
Historic theaters and auditoriums can serve as powerful anchors for neighborhood revitalization, preserving community identity while generating new cultural and economic activity. Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood offers two compelling examples in the Emery Theater and Memorial Hall. This panel will explore the rehabilitation and current operations of these historic venues, including approaches to preserving historic character while accommodating contemporary performance, accessibility, building-system, and operational requirements. Panelists will also examine how successful historic theaters can generate foot traffic, strengthen community identity, and catalyze continued investment in surrounding neighborhoods. Attendees will gain insight into how preservation, cultural programming, and long-term operations can work together to support community revitalization. This session is approved for 1.00 AIA LU credit.