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The commercial kitchen inside the historic Woodward Opera House will soon have a new operator after Yellowbird Foodshed announced it will no longer operate The Woodward Kitchen.
In a statement released by the Woodward Opera House Board of Directors, officials thanked Yellowbird Foodshed for its investment in the commercial kitchen and its efforts to establish and operate the business.
“We sincerely appreciate the time and effort Yellowbird Foodshed invested in operating the commercial kitchen through the entity it established, known as ‘The Woodward Kitchen,'” the board said.
According to the board, Yellowbird Foodshed declined the opportunity to continue as a tenant following discussions about the future of the space. After reviewing the arrangement, the Board of Directors determined the existing lease was no longer financially sustainable because it did not provide revenue to help offset the building’s utility and operating expenses.
“As a result, the Board has decided to move forward with leasing the space to another local business,” the statement said.
The Woodward Kitchen has operated inside the downtown performing arts venue, serving guests during events and providing another dining option in downtown Mount Vernon. The board emphasized that the decision was made with the long-term financial health of the nonprofit arts organization in mind.
The Woodward Opera House, originally built in 1851, is one of the oldest authentic theaters in the United States and hosts concerts, theatrical productions, community events and educational programming throughout the year. Officials say the organization remains committed to its mission of providing meaningful arts and cultural programming while seeking a new tenant for the commercial kitchen space.
The Board of Directors also thanked community members for their continued support of both the Woodward Opera House and its mission as the transition moves forward.
No timeline has been announced for selecting a new tenant or reopening the kitchen under new management.
