CAMBRIDGE, MA— A transformative addition to Cambridge’s cultural and innovation ecosystem is on the horizon. BioMed Realty, in partnership with Global Arts Live and Takeda, announced today that the highly anticipated 45,000-square-foot performing arts center at the 585 Kendall development will be officially named “The Platform.” Scheduled to open in Fall 2026, The Platform is set to become a vibrant hub for performance, community engagement, and artistic innovation in the heart of Kendall Square.
As part of the announcement, the main 400-seat performance hall will be named the Takeda Theater at The Platform, in recognition of Takeda’s corporate sponsorship and continued commitment to the Cambridge community.
“This is not just a performance venue—it’s a platform for artists, for culture, for community, and for connection,” said Connie C. Chin, CEO of Global Arts Live. “It will be a cultural hub where local, national, and international artists can create and share meaningful work.”
A Much-Needed Space for the Arts
The Platform fills a long-standing gap in the region’s arts infrastructure: the need for a professionally equipped, midsized venue accessible to a broad range of artists and organizations. In addition to the Takeda Theater, the center includes:
- A 125-seat cabaret stage
- A 3,100-sq-ft rehearsal studio matching the size of the main stage
- Public gathering spaces, including an indoor garden, bar, and café
- Ground-floor commons designed for community events and social connection
Importantly, the venue is designed with a focus on universal accessibility and community inclusion. Independent artists and nonprofit organizations will benefit from subsidized rates, and 25 nights annually will be offered rent-free, helping ensure that the space remains open and welcoming to all.
“Since long before we broke ground at 585 Kendall, this has been a project for—and informed by—the Kendall Square community,” said Salvatore Zinno, Senior Vice President of Development at BioMed Realty. “With Global Arts Live leading artistic programming, we’re building a destination that embodies the creativity, science, and diversity that defines this neighborhood.”
A Cultural Anchor in the Innovation District
Located just a few blocks from the Kendall MBTA station, The Platform sits at the crossroads of Cambridge’s globally recognized innovation district. BioMed Realty’s broader 585 Kendall development also includes 600,000 square feet of lab and office space, soon to become the home of Takeda’s Global Research & Development Center.
“Our purpose has always been to create better health for people and a brighter future for the world,” said Julie Kim, President of the U.S. Business Unit at Takeda. “Supporting The Platform reflects that commitment—helping to build a community space where people can connect and be inspired through the arts.”
Global Arts Live to Curate One-Third of Programming
Global Arts Live, a beloved Boston-based presenter with 35 years of experience, will curate one-third of The Platform’s artistic programming, with a focus on music, dance, and culturally diverse performances.
“For years, we and other area presenters have struggled to find affordable, appropriately sized venues,” said Maure Aronson, Founder and Director of Artistic Programs for Global Arts Live. “The Platform will finally make it possible to present more jazz, more dance, and a wider range of global artists to Boston-area audiences.”
Coming Fall 2026
The Platform is currently under construction, with occupancy expected in Spring 2026. After a summer dedicated to move-in and technical testing, the center will officially open its doors to the public in Fall 2026 with a grand celebration.
As Kendall Square continues to evolve as a global nexus of innovation, The Platform at 585 Kendall will ensure that the arts remain central to its identity—providing a space where science and creativity, performance and community, come together under one roof.
Location: 585 Kendall Street, Cambridge, MA
Opening: Fall 2026
