Frisco Independent School District recently revealed blueprints for a visual and performing arts center (VPAC) boasting 1,200 seats, versatile areas and an art gallery for district-wide use.
The voter-approved VPAC endorsed through a bond election in 2018, will establish a shared environment for events and competitions while offering an expanded venue for fine arts presentations.
Between 2018 and 2023, district leaders weighed community partnerships and other options, finally deciding in August 2022 to move forward independently with a district facility, according to FISD.
“The visual and performing arts center expands opportunities for fine arts students to collaborate across campuses and programs — not only now, but for decades to come,” a statement from the district said.
During a recent board meeting, renderings were released by the district. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2024 and be complete in 2026. According to the district, the project will be designed by Dallas architect Corgan.
The center will be located on Stockard Drive in East Frisco, adjacent to Hunt Middle School and across Legendary Drive from Stonebriar Community Church. The new space is set to include a two-story, 1,200-seat performance auditorium, two multipurpose labs, fine arts offices, an art exhibit gallery and back-of-house support spaces.
According to the district's student opportunity model, fine arts engage tens of thousands of Frisco ISD students. All elementary students receive education in music and visual art. Fine arts instruction involves 78% of middle school students and 51% of high school students participate in fine arts programs.
“An inheritance is something you leave to someone else. A legacy is something you leave in them,” said Pete Hazzard, managing director of fine arts. “This facility is a legacy of support that will forever remain in the hearts and minds of fine arts students and teachers in this district.”