Slideshow: Take a peek at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's new downtown Baltimore home

William Shakespeare might be the world’s most famous writer, but some historians and scholars say he was also a shrewd businessman who invested wisely in real estate.
 
If so, he would be proud of the Chesapeake Shakespeare Co. for honoring this legacy. It purchased the historic Mercantile Trust & Deposit Co. building at 200 E. Redwood St. and is spending $6 million on its purchase, refurbishment and initial operating expense. 

When renovations are finished early next year, the 250-seat theater will resemble the original Globe Theatre that was owned by actors, including Shakespeare.
 
The modern day version in downtown Baltimore was designed by architect Cho Benn Holback + Associates Inc. BmoreMedia Managing Photographer Steve Ruark took some photos of the building during a public open house, capturing the elaborate and colorful carved ceiling and Corinthian columns.
 
The theater will not only host Shakespeare and other classic plays, it will host international arts events and festivals. Chesapeake Shakespeare Co. will continue to perform its summer season at the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park in Ellicott City.