"The Dance Center will nearly double the current curriculum capacity and will also provide an additional 1,000 reduced-rate rehearsal space hours per year for New York performing arts organizations," said Nancy Umanoff, the MMDG's executive director. "This will allow MMDG to significantly expand its education and community programs while addressing the steadily increasing demand for rehearsal space."

Construction on the new studios is expected to begin in spring 2006.

The Mark Morris Dance Group is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary with a major tour. Yesterday's announcement came on the 25th anniversary of the group's first public performance.