A unique blackbox theater opens its doors tonight, far outside of the Theater District, in the Great Arrow Industrial Center. The new theater’s founder and artistic director Amy Taravella (pictured) says, “As an artist myself, I’ve always looked for this kind of space. Since I never found it, I decided to create it.” Taravella is also co-director, choreographer and dancer with Buffalo Contemporary Dance, and what she’s created is a large yet intimate venue that can host all kinds of productions and multi-media performances. The opening night event will feature Buffalo native gone jazz star Bobby Militello in a special guest appearance, along with the premiere of Bikini Launch, a dance theater piece concieved and choreographed by Taravella. The following night’s performance features David Kane of Them Jazzbeards, who composed the original score for Bikini Launch. ALT Theatre’s seating allows for direct and unobstructed sight lines, a layout carefully designed for both audience and performers. ALT plans to host dance, theater, burlesque, cabaret, stand-up, spoken word and more, if there can be anything more. The stage space is large, the directors are open to innovate ideas and a host of local (and some imported) talent is involved. What more could you want? Look for an upcoming five-performance run by Buffalo Contemporary Dance as well, scheduled for November 10-17.

Thursday & Friday, October 25-26, 8pm both nights. ALT Theatre, 255 Great Arrow Ave. (868-6847). $25 general; $20 students/seniors.