Faculty Committee Accepts Preliminary Theatre Plan

Plans for the new Harvard Theatre received "general acceptance" by the Faculty Committee on Theatre at a meeting yesterday, it has been learned. The set of preliminary sketches drawn by architect Hugh A. Stubbins will be sent to President Pusey for approval within the next week.

A spokesman for the committee emphasized that, since changes are likely, the plans will not be released until approved by the President. "The general arrangement of space" has been decided, he pointed out, but the sketches will probably be altered before a final decision is reached.

Michel Saint-Denis, French actor, teacher and producer who delivered the annual Theodore Spencer Lectures here Ysterday, was present at the meeting in an advisory capacity. He appeared "very enthusiastic" about the theatre design, noting that its openness and freedom is reminiscent of Japanese theatre.

Underground Stage

At past meetings, Stubbins has considered construction of an underground stage, so that the building will harmonize with the surroundings and the street noise can be minimized. Other features which might have been included in the sketches approved yesterday are a library, a workshop theatre, and an adjustable apron on the main stage which can be raised and lowered to meet various production demands.

Due to the limited time available for the meeting, the committee was unable to discuss the resolutions submitted by the Student Council Drama Committee last month. Members of the Faculty committee have expressed general agreement with most of the report.