The new 103,400-square-foot performing arts center and district office for Lexington School District Two is opening soon. 

"It's great to see all this coming to fruition," said District 2 Superintendent Brenda Hafner. "We're really appreciative to our taxpayers for being willing to invest in our community and invest in our district and invest in our children. ... They'll know that the money was well spent and it's very beneficial for our community."

Set to open this May, the facility will host performances, special events and district-wide occasions. 

Located at 3205 Platt Springs Rd. in West Columbia in the Springdale area, this construction has a two-level balcony that can seat over 1,500 people. 

According to a release from the district, there is upgraded stage lighting and sound systems, dressing rooms, set storage and backstage areas. The facility has the capacity to support dance, music, theater and more. 

“The Performing Arts Center will primarily be used for district students, schools and employees. The vision for the center also includes use for professional development and planning, statewide conferences, conventions and student competitions, as well as community and cultural events,” according to the release. “The Performing Arts Center is the final phase of a 10-year, $225 million bond referendum approved by voters in 2014, which has added three new schools, the district’s Innovation Center and upgrades across the district.”

The performing arts center part takes up 71,800 feet of the facility. There is a grand lobby downstairs and an added lobby on the second floor with views of the lower lobby. There are also four meeting spaces, two of which can hold as many as 300 people.

“An important benefit of the new center is the opportunity that it provides Lexington Two students to perform in a world-class space,” according to information provided by the district. “Additionally, students will have the opportunity to learn the behind-the-scenes roles and jobs that are necessary for performances, as well as receive first-hand exposure to professionals in the industry.” 

This is a multi-purpose facility, as it will also hold the Lexington Two district office, which will take up 31,600 feet of the building. 

This project was a $52 million investment and according to the release, it represents the final phase of a 10-year $225 million bond referendum that voters approved in 2014. 

“Over the past decade,” the release read, “the district has added three new schools, the Lexington Two Innovation Center and capital upgrades across the district.”