October 26, 2008
The Smith Center For The Performing Arts Announces New Construction Developments
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts announces new development plans for the world-class performing arts center to be built downtown. Citing recommendations from design architect David M. Schwarz, the exterior of the Smith Center will now be built using Indiana Limestone instead of the previously discussed rose metaquartzite. In addition, the 650-seat small hall previously envisioned for the campus has been removed from the building program.
Recognizable from its use in many of the nation’s great buildings and landmarks including the U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial and Empire State Building, Indiana Limestone was deemed the most appropriate choice for The Smith Center.
“Indiana Limestone is the most proven material used for buildings of this stature. This stone will add grandeur and elegance to The Smith Center and will stand the test of time,” said David Schwarz, president and chief executive officer of David M. Schwarz Architects.
In addition to the change in material, The Smith Center is also making adjustments to the building program. The previously contemplated 650-seat small hall, which was to be home to Nevada Ballet, has been removed from the plan. Due in part to Nevada Ballet’s projected growth, the Ballet will now be using the 2,050-seat main hall for all productions.
Plans for the cultural center now include a total of three theaters. The 2,050-seat main hall will be home for the Las Vegas Philharmonic and touring Broadway shows in addition to housing the Nevada Ballet. A smaller, 300-seat theater will have a stage facing Symphony Park and host jazz, cabaret and other intimate performances. The third theater will be a 200-seat flexible studio used for rehearsals, children’s theater and local community events.
“We are pleased to adapt to the growing needs of our resident companies and arts partners,” said Myron Martin, president of The Smith Center. “The three Smith Center theaters will provide wonderful programming for the community and I am convinced that this decision will allow us to consider a number of opportunities that will only enhance the offerings of our arts campus.”
City officials and Newland Communities approved all plan revisions for The Smith Center. A new rendering has been created and models of the main hall are being produced and will be available for public viewing in the near future. Groundbreaking for The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is slated for early 2009.
About The Smith Center
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts is a public/private partnership that will become the centerpiece of cultural life in Las Vegas offering a blend of performances by local arts groups as well as first-run touring attractions. The 4.75-acre cultural complex will feature inviting lobbies with beautiful balconies, refined acoustics and a tastefully landscaped plaza linking surrounding hotels, restaurants, shops and offices in downtown’s 61-acre urban development, Union Park. Home to three theaters; a main hall, cabaret theater and flexible studio, The Smith Center will be a living room for the community; a place that will educate, entertain and excite the citizens of our great community. Groundbreaking for The Smith Center is planned for early 2009 with a projected opening in 2011. For more information about The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, please visit http://www.thesmithcenter.com.
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