Lexington Two to inaugurate new performing arts center and district office

West Columbia, SC 11/30/2021 – Lexington Two will open a new performing arts center and district office in December, following final approval of the plans by the board earlier this month.

The center, the final room in the $ 225 million District Bonds referendum approved by voters in 2014, will be located on district-owned property at 3211 Platt Springs Road in Springdale. It was originally planned for Saxe Gotha Road in Cayce, but was moved in favor of a more centralized location for the five communities served by the district.

Groundbreaking is scheduled for Tuesday, December 7, 2021. Construction is expected to take around two years.

“We are delighted to announce the grand opening of the Performing Arts Center,” said Lexington Two Board Chair Christina Rucker. “This facility will be located in the heart of our school district and is the perfect place to showcase our amazing and talented students.”

The center will provide the district with a large, state-of-the-art venue and full working stage for district-wide performances, special events and occasions, which many schools do not have. The center will feature a two-level balcony that can accommodate 1,550 people, as well as four meeting and event spaces, two of which can accommodate up to 300 people. Upgraded lighting and sound systems, along with dressing rooms, storage and backstage, will ensure the center is equipped for a range of opportunities in dance, music, theater and more.

“This project is symbolic of the transition from the district referendum period to future opportunities for our students, employees and communities,” said Lexington Two Superintendent Dr. Nicolas Wade. “This facility, I believe, firmly affirms that we are a district that is central, innovative and attractive. I am excited about the work that has been done and is currently underway to make sure this is a place that creates and supports champions. “

The centre’s primary mission – which represents Lexington Two’s commitment to the importance of the fine arts in education – is its use by students, schools and district staff. 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, as the space is available.

“The most important benefit of this center is the opportunity it gives our students to perform in such an incredible space,” said Jim LeBlanc, director of the Saluda River Academy for the Arts at Lexington Two. “But it’s more than just a building these students can perform in. Students can learn the behind-the-scenes roles and jobs that are necessary for performances, as well as receive direct exposure to industry professionals. who will be attracted to use such a pleasant place. Our students will have state-of-the-art facilities to showcase their many talents in all artistic fields. “

The board, which gave final approval to the project at its November 18 meeting, is expected to decide on the name of the center in the coming weeks. A stakeholder committee made three recommendations: Lexington Two Visual and Performing Arts Center (Lex2 V-PAC), Metropolitan Arts Center of Lexington Two (MAC of Lex2) and Midlands Arts Center of Lexington Two (MAC of Lex2).

The district office will move to the center, a measure that will allow the space to be occupied continuously. The estimated cost of the project is $ 52 million.

“I can’t wait to see what our focus and renewed commitment to the fine arts will look like, as later this school year we will embark on a working committee to assess current needs, determine the needs and interests of our people. students and shape our future direction, ”said Dr. Wade.

PHOTOS: Exterior renderings of the Lexington Two Performing Arts Center (Jumper Carter Sease)