WASHINGTON (AP) — The Shakespeare Theatre Company has closed on the purchase of Washington’s former Southeastern University building to redevelop the site as a support center for the theater.

The theater announced the purchase this week with Erkiletian Development Company after they reached an agreement with the Southwest Neighborhood Assembly. The neighborhood group had sought to preserve the building.

The theater plans to design and build a new facility. The site will allow the theater to consolidate its rehearsal spaces, housing for artists and interns, costume and prop shops, classrooms and administrative offices in one location.

The Shakespeare Theatre Company performs in two downtown Washington locations, the Lansburgh Theatre and Sidney Harman Hall.

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