Construction on the new Davis Performing Arts Center is proceeding on schedule, according to Vice President of University Facilities Karen Frank. She said that the $30.8 million renovation and expansion project will be completed and open for use next semester. The complex is expected to cost less than the allocated budget.
The new facility, constructed from cinderblock and brick, will cover 39,600 square feet and have two theaters: a main stage seating 229 audience members and a black-box style stage that will be able to seat 90 with its mobile bleacher seating. The facility will house the administrative offices of the academic Program for Performing Arts, as well as scene, costume and design shops, three large rehearsal rooms and several small classrooms.
Bovis Lending Lease has completed much of the structural work; the mechanical and dressing rooms are clearly distinguishable and have basic electricity and plumbing. The two-story orchestra pit is visible in both the basement and main stage levels. The under-stage trap, a moveable platform between the stage and basement level that will allow swift scene changes, is visible in the smooth concrete stage foundation.
The original Ryan Administration building has not yet been transformed into the future lobby, restroom and office area. It is separated from the rest of the site by a two-story plywood wall. While the black-box has been walled, neither it nor any other part of the top floor has been roofed. The main stage has not yet been enclosed and is completely open. The outer frames for the scene shop and two rehearsal rooms are complete, but no internal walls have been constructed east (Harbin side) of the black-box theater.
Steel beams are in place to support the roofs of completed sections and the stage-level floor has extra beams to provide additional strength underneath main stage seating.
Though lacking the central structure of the main theater, construction efforts continue on schedule.
