WACO – The proposed Waco Culture, Arts and Performance Center is taking shape as the next step begins.
The building is being planned for a city-owned plot at University Parks Dr. and Franklin Ave., in the center of downtown.
Architecture firm OMA was selected last year, and a contract was signed with Community Counseling Service Co. to study potential donor support. The center is predicted to cost $70 million to $100 million.
The main theater space will be adjacent to Franklin Ave., with a black box theater and recording studio wedged on either side. The building was designed to be as transparent as possible to keep the facility flowing with its surroundings. A garden will be placed in the main lobby, surrounded by a circular stairway. The lobby also includes a bar and restaurant.
The main auditorium will hold 2,000 seats with three balconies and a flexible floor system, half of which will be stacked in balconies, with the other half slightly raked on the floor. The floor can also be flattened to make the space flexible for symphonies, banquets, or concerts.
The black box theater will have 200 seats and a façade that can be opened to face the street.
The side of the building facing the river could also feature a large screen that could broadcast performances or provide opportunities for other community events.
