Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University ushered in a new era on Monday, May 19, with the official groundbreaking for the Center’s 24,000-square-foot expansion. The ceremony took place at 1:30 p.m. on Wharton Center’s north plaza and included remarks from MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, MSU Board of Trustees vice chairperson Melanie Foster, Wharton Center executive director Michael Brand, and the special announcement of a $2.5 Million gift from the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union.
A Brief History
“Since opening its doors in 1982, Wharton Center has solidified a reputation as an industry leader and advocate for renowned arts entertainment and education programming,” said Simon. “This expansion - the first major enhancement to the Center in 25 years - will help bolster the cultural and economic vitality of our community and our state by ensuring that we continue to present a diverse selection of performing arts experiences.”
Project Details
The $18.5 million construction plan features a dramatic new four-story façade of brick and glass. Enhancements include an expanded front lobby, enlarged box office and gift shop; more women’s restrooms; two new multi-purpose spaces to accommodate the new MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity, which will be wired to allow for long-distance learning opportunities; as well as provide more flexible space for private gatherings and donor receptions on the second floor; and consolidated administrative offices on the third floor. The expansion and renovation will also address touring production issues backstage with a new crew room, restrooms, dressing rooms and more. In addition, more than 9,000 square feet of current space will be renovated to maximize utilization
Groundbreaking Ceremony
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Monday May 19, included a special announcement of a multi-million dollar gift to fund the new MSU Federal Credit Union Institute for Arts & Creativity, which is part of the expansion project. Wharton Center’s existing education programs will continue to function under the new institute, in addition to an expanded program of artist residencies, distance learning opportunities and statewide outreach.
The MSU Board of Trustees unanimously gave “authorization to proceed” at their April 18th meeting. Bloomfield Hills-based TMP Architecture/TMP Associates Inc. designed the expansion and renovations. Lansing-based Christman Company will lead the construction process, which is scheduled to begin this month. The new addition is scheduled to be completed in May 2009; renovations to existing space will be completed by September 2009.