Facility is among the largest production studios in the PBS system and tri-state region
Maryland Public Television (MPT) today conducted ceremonies to mark the opening of The Irene and Edward H. Kaplan Production Studio at its Owings Mills, Maryland, campus. The event was the culmination of a 20-month construction project making the now 8,480 sq. ft. production studio among the largest in the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) system and the Maryland/Delaware/Virginia region.
MPT’s Studio A first opened in 1969 when the statewide public TV network opened its headquarters facility. The then-4,800 sq. ft. studio served as MPT’s primary production space for 50 years, supplemented by two smaller studios that continue to operate.
With funding from the State of Maryland, MPT embarked on a $9.54 million project to significantly expand and upgrade Studio A and an adjoining front entrance plaza. The project groundbreaking took place during a celebration marking MPT’s 50th anniversary on June 28, 2019. Work commenced in March 2020.
The expanded studio is now named for Irene and Edward H. Kaplan to honor and thank the Montgomery County residents for their support of MPT and its mission over several decades. Edward H. Kaplan is chairman of MPT’s governing body, the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission.
“The naming of this studio reflects the significant involvement that Eddie and Irene have invested in MPT over the past 24 years,” explains MPT President and CEO Larry D. Unger. “They strongly endorse the work of MPT and do all they can to further it. The couple’s vision and commitment has resulted in the creation of the New Initiatives Fund and Chesapeake Bay-related initiatives that bring so many wonderful MPT productions to life. Suffice it to say that the Kaplan name is on this structure because it deserves to be.”
The expanded Kaplan Studio is 75% larger than the original studio – at 8,480 sq. ft. – and boasts the latest technology and environmental efficiencies. It offers a 16’ x 19’ x 20’ green screen cyclorama wall; 12’ x 14’ loading doors enabling vehicle access directly into the studio; and a portable theater seating structure for up to 148 studio guests. In addition to the production studio, the building has an additional 3,479 sq. ft. of space to accommodate two dressing rooms, a green room, restrooms, mechanical room, and storage. The entire facility is ADA-compliant and also earned LEED Silver Certification.
The Irene and Edward H. Kaplan Production Studio is scheduled to be used for the first time in June. In partnership with WBAL-TV, MPT will produce and air a one-hour debate featuring candidates vying for the Democratic Party nomination for Maryland governor.
The Kaplan Studio will also be used by MPT for production of local and national public TV series, documentaries, and specials. Beyond these productions, MPT will invite in audiences for televised public affairs/town hall meetings, concerts and performances, and additional candidate debates and forums produced in the studio. In the future, the studio facilities will also be made available to rent to outside production companies.
About Maryland Public Television
Maryland Public Television (MPT) is a statewide, public-supported TV network and Public Broadcasting Service member offering entertaining, educational, and inspiring content delivered by traditional broadcasting and streaming on TVs, computers, and mobile devices. A state agency, it operates under the auspices of the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission. MPT creates local, regional, and national content and is a frequent winner of regional Emmy® awards. MPT’s commitment to educators, parents, caregivers, and learners of all ages is delivered through instructional events and Thinkport.org. MPT’s year-round community engagement activities connect viewers with resources on a wide range of topics. For more information visit mpt.org.
