Fall 2014 introduced many changes for the performing arts department, including the opening of a new performing arts building, Scott Studios, in August. Located next to Arts West, Scott Studios includes practice spaces, a large rehearsal studio and a new performance theater.
The idea for this performing arts building began several years ago. President Leo Lambert suggested renovating the Gerald L. Francis Center home of Elon University’s School of Health Sciences, but structural issues with the building prevented the project from coming to fruition.
Instead, alternative locations on campus were examined. The space next to Arts West seemed like an ideal location to proceed with construction.
“It’s really an arts corner,” said Fred Rubeck, chair of the performing arts department, explaining how Arts West and Scott Studios complement each other.
The building’s construction faced some challenges early on, primarily because of inclement weather. In the spring, several snow and ice storms delayed the start date.
“We felt pretty good about finishing it in time for class,” Rubeck said.
Performing arts majors began using the space for their classes August 26.
Scott Studios includes six practice studios for piano and voice students and houses a rehearsal studio with the same dimensions of McCrary Theatre. Now when there is a show being performed in McCrary, students have the opportunity to rehearse in a studio the same size.
The studio is decked out with wood floors, mirrors and ballet barres to equip a variety of performing arts majors.
Another new addition, the performance theater, is similar to the Black Box Theatre. The new theater is estimated to seat up to 175 people, whereas the original Black Box Theater seats less than 100. The theater also features LED lighting, an energy-efficient innovation.
Both black box theaters will be used this semester. Rubeck said that performances may occur simultaneously and allow the casts more time to prepare.
“It gives them an appropriate set of spaces,” Rubeck said. “It will allow us to do different kinds of shows than we would have in the smaller studio.”
Scott Studios also maintains a large storage and working space, allowing sets to be stored in the space provided in the building, rather than being destroyed. Dressing rooms for men and women are also included.
The performing arts department has a storage space in Gibsonville where props and set pieces are stored and normally set pieces would have to be destroyed but now with the new storage in Scott Studios this problem has been resolved.
The space will also make tech reherasals easier, and enhance the quality of blackbox shows. Students can produce more shows now.
The building is set apart from the rest of Elon’s campus because of its modern architecture, which Rubeck and others refer to as “edgy-Elon.” With shiny gray and black floors and colorful walls, the building exudes a contemporary flair.
Students are impressed with the space. Rubeck said many of them have expressed their excitement about the building opening.
“It’s incredible. It’s literally been designed for us, and the spaces are just so well-equipped,” said sophomore Harrison Johnson, an acting major.
Additionally, this building is anticipated to attract more students to Elon. Rubeck said recruitment for all performing arts programs will likely increase.
There is also a “pride factor” for Rubeck and others who benefit from the new building. Students are appreciative of the new facility and grateful that new practice spaces are available.
The building was specifically designed with the performing arts students in mind, which allows the building to cater to their needs.
“It is such a joy to go to a school where I feel like the growth of my department matters, and this state-of-the-art space is something else that shows how our program is expanding,” said sophomore acting major Spencer Hodges.