Tallahassee Performing Arts Center Committee

Frequently Asked Questions about Tallahassee's Performing Arts Center

updated April 2005

What is a performing arts center?

There is no "standard" performing arts center. Some have one multi-purpose auditorium, others have several performing spaces of different sizes, and still others have different spaces designed specifically for different art forms.

Some centers rely primarily on outside touring companies that stop for only one or two nights. Others have professional resident theatre companies that produce the same quality shows as those on Broadway. Often these centers feature dance companies, orchestras, opera, popular music concerts, and special events for children and families as part of their season offerings. Many performing arts centers contain other attractions such as art galleries, educational facilities, and stores.

How many seats will the performing arts center have?

The final determination has not yet been made. There are two scenarios currently being discussed. The first scenario contains three performing venues: a mid-sized multi-purpose theatre with 750 seats, a concert theatre with 1,350 seats, and a large performance hall with 2,800 seats. The second scenario contains two performing venues: a mid-sized multi-purpose theatre with 650 seats and a large concert/performance hall with 2,200 seats. The available dollars and community input will make the final decision.

Where will the Performing Arts Center be built?

The site selection criteria will be developed early in Act II. Selecting a site is complex. The size and "footprint" of the facility, including performance space, rehearsal space, backstage space, office space, lobby and public areas, and support facilities, will determine the size of the property needed. Cost, public access, parking, and traffic patterns are critical factors. Some potential locations offer opportunities for partnerships.

How long will it take to build?

The process has several phases: pre-construction, architectural design, and construction. Phase One, pre-construction, which will determine what it is and where it will be, is estimated to take approximately eight months. This means that by Fall 2005 the committee will have a recommendation for City, County, and the community about the type, size, configuration, and site for the facility.

How fast the project moves forward after that will depend on many factors, including how quickly a fundraising plan can be developed and implemented. The average length of time from pre-construction to opening night is six years.

How much will it cost?

Until we decide what we are going to build, no one knows. We do know that these facilities are expensive, averaging $375 per square foot.

Can we afford this?

This community has expressed a desire for a performing arts center for more than thirty years, and with your help, it will become a reality. The County has already dedicated one cent of the bed tax to this project. The bulk of the funding will come from the community through large and small donations, requests to business and foundation partners, and fundraising drives and events. Grants will also be written to many sources. Creative ways to earn funding will be found - we know it can be done!

The center will also be a tremendous economic benefit to the area. The community's investment in the construction and operation of a performing arts center will be amply returned by new jobs created, increased tourism, and increased revenue to restaurants, suppliers, and many other local businesses.

Who are the consultants for the project and why do we need them?

Performing arts centers are among the most complicated of all building types, second only to hospitals in complexity. The extensive knowledge and experience the consultants bring to this project will allow us to make the right decisions for Tallahassee and avoid critical and costly mistakes other communities have made.

Theatre Projects Consultants, Inc. is one of the top performing arts center consultants in the world. They have worked on more than 800 projects in 50 countries over the past 47 years, and have offices in Connecticut, London, and Singapore. They are experts who specialize in the design of theatres and performance spaces. They have state-of-the-art knowledge of acoustics, seating design, theatrical equipment, ADA, site selection, operations and budgeting, and other essential areas. You can find out more about them at their web site at www.TPCworld.com.

How can I give you my opinion and keep up with the progress of the Center?

For updates and information, visit the Performing Arts Center Committee's web site at www.OnWithTheShowTLH.com.

Community input is very important, and a number of open meetings are being arranged to make sure everyone is heard. These meetings will be advertised on our web site and through the media.

You can also voice your opinions through the e-mail addresses and comments box on the website. Please feel free to call the Cultural Resources Commission at 850-224-2500 if you have any other questions.

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