Center for Performing Arts

Center for Performing Arts, exterior view

Center for Performing Arts

College of Fine Arts and Communication

 

FAQ

 

Who are the Architects & Design Team?

 

Pelli, Clarke & Partners Design Architect New Haven, CT
Cannon Design Architect of Record Chicago, IL
River City Construction General Contractor Peoria, IL
Theatre Projects Consultants Norwalk, CT
Kirkegaard Associates A/V & Acoustician Chicago, IL
Affiliated Engineers Inc. MEP/HVAC & Technology Madison, WI
Thornton Thomasetti Inc. Structural Engineer Chicago, IL
David Mason Assoc. Civil Engineer Chicago, IL
Hitchcock Design Group Landscape Architect Chicago, IL
IMEG Engineering Consultants Commissioning Agent Rock Island, IL

 

The Great Hall Specifications

 

Seating 869 Total
  Orchestra = 257
  Main Floor = 316
  Balcony = 296
Adjustable Width Proscenium - 70’-0” w x 34-’0’ H
Full Hydraulic Orchestra Pit
Full Acoustic Concert Shell (8 towers x 2 ceiling units)
Fixed Projector FOH
Multi Camera Live Stream
Event Control and In-House Mix
Assisted Listening System
Company Switch
Distinct Broadcast/Live Stream and Recording Booths
2 Loading Dock Doors

 

The Studio Specifications

 

The Studio
100 – 200 Seats Flexible
2 - Dance Studios – Sprung Floors
Dance Rehearsal
Jazz Performance Studio
Theatre Rehearsal
4 - Classrooms/Seminar Rooms

 

When did CPA construction begin?

 

10 September 2022

 

When will the CPA be Completed?

 

Anticipated Completion Fall 2025

 

How large is the CPA?

 

100,000 sq ft

 

What is the cost of the CPA?

 

$119 million

 

How will the CPA impact campus parking?

 

Parking for the CPA was built in 2014 next to the Marching Band Practice Field.

 

What additional staff are required for the CPA?

 

Staffing and programming are being finalized in order to meet the academic and programming needs of the space.

 

How will the CPA impact the local economy?

 

The CPA will host events for public and campus alike. Tourism revenue such as restaurant, travel, and lodging costs, as well as ticket purchases will help the regional economy.

 

Will WIU Department of Theatre and Dance performances be held in the CPA?

 

Large scale productions will be performed in the Great Hall. Smaller productions will regularly be produced in the Studio Theatre. Additional performances can and may be scheduled as the Department of Theatre and Dance programming requires.

 

Will WIU School of Music performances be held in the CPA?

 

Many of the large and medium sized ensembles will perform in the Great Hall. Additional performances can and may be scheduled as the School of Music programming requires.

 

Will Bureau of Cultural Affairs (BCA) performances be held in the CPA?

 

Yes, as well as additional opportunities for outside events and performances.

 

Will the CPA be available to all WIU students?

 

Yes. Many performances will be available to WIU students at low or reduced cost. Some performances will be available on a fee schedule for students and the general public.

 

Will the CPA be available for rent?

 

Yes, rental opportunities are being discussed and will be made available as soon as possible.

 

What is the role of the Performing Arts Society (PAS) in the CPA?

 

The Performing Arts Society supports all performing arts across the college and beyond. The PAS will coordinate with CPA staff and the Deans office within the College of Fine Arts and Communication.

 

Can I tour the CPA?

 

The State of Illinois Capital Development Board is the lead on construction of the building. At some point close to building completion, we will be able to do limited tours and of course once it is fully operational, tours can be scheduled.

 

Will the CPA be a LEED certified building?

 

When completed the CPA will be a LEED Silver building.

 

How can we afford the CPA when WIU has other pressing campus needs?

 

This project was funded with state Capital Development Fund dollars -- a bond- financed fund that can be used for capital development needs only. State funding must be used for its appropriated purpose. Agency operations cannot be funded through bond funds.

 

How can I make a gift to support the CPA?

 

All gifts and support for the CPA can be directed to William T (Billy) Clow, Dean or Mick Cumbie, Development Director. Contact information is below.

 

Will gifts to support the CPA count in the “Support the W” capital campaign?

 

All gifts in support of the Center for Performing Arts count towards the SUPPORT the W Campaign so your gift gets recognized twice.

 

Who do I contact if I still have questions?

 

William T (Billy) Clow, Dean, College of Fine Arts and Communication

 

WT-Clow@wiu.edu - 309.298.1618

 

Mick Cumbie, Development Officer, College of Fine Arts and Communication

 

M-Cumbie@wiu.edu - 309.298.2620

 

Ted Renner, Deputy Director, Facilities Management

 

T-Renner@wiu.edu – 309.298.1834