More than 20 performing arts companies have expressed an interest in making Hamilton Stage their home.

Companies of a variety of styles and sizes have expressed an interest, including classical and contemporary dance companies to various types of youth performing arts groups, according to Richard Bryant of Madison-based Front of House Services, a consultant to the Rahway Arts District. The 220-seat black box theater and performing arts space is scheduled to open next summer in the former Bell building on Hamilton Street. A floor plan can be found here.

Requests for Proposals (RFP) were posted (.pdf) on the Arts District website this month. Letters of intent are due July 13 and RFPs must be received by Aug. 17. A proposal workshop and site visit for potential RFP respondents is scheduled Wednesday.

Primary artistic affiliates would sign up for five-year leases, beginning with the inaugural season September 2012 to June 2013, and associate affiliates would commit for two years. Primary affiliates would use nine to 15 performing weeks during the season (September to June) while associates would take three to eight weeks, leaving time for other activities and community events.