courtesy of Dallas Nolty

Some theaters save on energy costs by ditching big sets and ritzy lighting, but Theater for the New City is taking its conservation efforts in a new direction – up.

The idea to give the theater its first green roof is the brainchild of Executive Artistic Director, Crystal Field. While the project is in its initial stages, Theater for the New City is hosting a night of environmentally-themed entertainment on Nov. 9th to benefit its green roof campaign.

In Manhattan, rooftops have become a cool commodity. City code mandates that all new buildings be coated with a white material to reflect rather than absorb light. Harder to find are green roofs, which feature soil and living vegetation atop a waterproofing membrane. Field hopes by installing a green roof that she’ll be able to mobilize others to act in a similar fashion, according to the theater’s website.

Former Policy Director at Sustainable South Bronx, Rob Crauderueff explained that storm water management may be the greatest advantage to having a green roof. But the city “is not adequately considering vegetated infrastructure,” he said.

While the website gives dollar estimates in the hundreds of thousands for the cost of installing a green roof, it does not indicate the amount of energy savings. Monday’s benefit is intended to raise money for the cause.

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Admission to “Raising the Roof” is $10. Theater for the New City is located at 155 First Avenue (btw 9th and 10th Streets). Visit green.htm to learn more.