Orlando is set to get a new performing arts center. Located right on Orange Ave. in the heart of downtown, it's planned to feature two performing halls, a community theater, outside performance space, as well as rehearsal and educational spaces.
Some design plans were unveiled earlier this year and more details like plans and concept drawings can be found
here. Groundbreaking is set to begin early 2011, but the parking lot at the future location is already being blocked off and the old fire station has already been demolished. An opening date for Fall 2013 has been given, but I think it's still too early to tell. For regular updates and photos, check out the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center threat over at
Urban Planet Orlando.
I know some people aren't too happy about it. First of all, it's replacing the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre which has been there with its strange British spelling since 1926. Secondly, people think money should be spent on other, more important issues.
I think it's exactly the sort of thing downtown needs. Also, I recently read a depressing article that
ranked Florida as the 49th state in arts funding. With all the music and game production, acting and filming, entertainment, and digital media business that goes on in Orlando alone (equaling billions in revenue each year), that's just pitiful. Personally, I can't wait.
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