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The Church: A Righteous Restoration

Buffalo's already vibrant theater and performing arts scene will receive an infusion of new energy in 2006 when Ani DiFranco's Righteous Babe Records opens a state-of-the-art performance space in the former Asbury Delaware Church.

Re-christened The Church, this remarkable adaptive re-use of a Buffalo landmark dating from 1871 will play host to an eclectic array of performers and styles and provide another anchor to the city's burgeoning entertainment district. Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center will share the space and continue its tradition of presenting exhibits, film screenings and musical performances by the most adventurous and provocative artists working today.

 
The story of The Church is one of patience and persistence in the face of daunting odds. More than a decade ago, Righteous Babe Records became involved in the fight to save what was then known as the Delaware Asbury Methodist Church.

 
Ani DiFranco and Righteous Babe Records President Scot Fisher were determined to see the historic structure saved and transformed for a dynamic new use as a way to bring fresh vitality and culture to downtown Buffalo. Ten years later, the goal of saving the building has been met. Extensive structural repairs to the interior and exterior have been completed, and work is nearly complete on the interior renovation that has transformed a 19th century house of worship into a 21st century arts complex including offices, the Hallwalls gallery, and a 1200-person performing arts hall.

 
"I think it will be a really dynamic place that will have a momentum of its own once all the creative people are in there, and there is music happening at night, and art hanging on the walls and crazy cinema in the basement," DiFranco told The Buffalo News. "I think that the collective energy of all those people coming together will emanate out through the neighborhood."

 
In spring 2006, Righteous Babe Records will move into its new headquarters; the concert venue Asbury Hall will begin operations; and a basement lounge will open. In each case, the building will provide an exciting new focal point for Buffalo's vibrant visual and performing arts scene.

 
"The space itself has a soul.  It's vibe-y, it's cool and it's beautiful," DiFranco said. "I think it's going to be awesome."