Evanston requested Tuesday that theater companies submit their qualifications to be considered to operate out of a Howard Street property.

Qualified companies are being asked to submit proposals to manage the property and its 80- to 120-seat theater that the city will construct and own, the city announced.

“Adding performing arts to Evanston’s Howard Street border and bringing this theatre to life is a critical component of the City’s redevelopment efforts in the South Evanston community,” Ald. Ann Rainey (8th) said in a news release. “Live theatre is an important and logical ingredient to continue the vibrant growth of Evanston and Howard Street.”

An adjacent property, 717 Howard St., will also be included after it’s torn down in late spring or early summer of this year, the city said.

A focus group consisting of local performing arts representatives was created to discuss plans for the theater. At a City Council meeting Monday, Rainey said the focus group would interview all potential candidates for the theater space.

Responses to the request for qualifications are due June 5.

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