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Performing Arts
Center Would Create Arts Quadrangle
Plans for the construction of a Performing
Arts Center (PAC) on Western's campus would place the new facility
adjacent to Browne Hall and create an Arts Quadrangle on the south
campus.
The architectural firm of VOA Associates
Incorporated worked with the Performing Arts Center Planning Committee
and President Al Goldfarb on the development of space utilization
in the facility and its suggested location. Architectural drawings
of the proposed PAC facilities are available on the University
website at www.wiu.edu.
The PAC, framed by existing buildings, would
face Western Avenue and have a weather-protected drop off area
for patrons. A covered walkway connecting the new facility with
Browne Hall and the College of Fine Arts and Communication Recital
Hall in Simpkins Hall is suggested.
The 114,560 square foot facility would include
a 1,900-seat proscenium main theatre, a 300-seat thrust stage
theatre and a 150-seat studio theatre. The main theatre would
accommodate approximately 1,000 seats on the main floor, with
the remaining seats in two balconies. It would be located just
north of a central lobby space.
The thrust stage theatre in conjunction
with the rehearsal halls would provide useful new performance
and teaching space. The studio theatre would be able to be set
up with various seating and presentation modes. The remainder
of the building program would provide space for support services
and front lobby guest accommodations. The area would also include
parking located underground and around the south and east sides
of the facility.
Construction costs are estimated at $45,745,044.
The University received $4 million in planning funds for the facility
this fiscal year, and the Illinois Board of Higher Education recommended
partial funding of $22.5 million for FY04 in the budget submitted
to the Governor and Illinois General Assembly. The IBHE budget
also recommended the remainder of the construction funds be allocated
in a future budget year.
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