The $1.5 million re-do project of McCall Plaza in the Downtown Plano Arts District is ready to celebrate its grand re-opening the weekend of April 15 with free events!
Mayor Harry LaRosiliere and David McCall will open the celebration at 4:30 p.m. that Friday with special remarks. After the pair speak, music by Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band will ring through the plaza. The foursome covers one of the world’s most-known music groups, The Beatles, while adding their own innovative twists to classic songs. The after-party will continue late into the night at the Downtown Plano bars and dining establishments.
The celebration goes on—the next day, April 16, will start with consecutive artist performances in 30-minute intervals, performed by local arts groups. All types of artists will perform, and more details of what types will be known closer to date. In the meantime, imagine the scene The West End in Dallas used to be. Next on the stage are Independent Music Award-winning blues musicians, Joe and Vicki Price.
The estimated half-acre plaza is named after McCall’s father, a former Plano Mayor and one of the most prominent civic leaders in Plano’s history. The McCall’s have always been huge supporters of the city and of the arts.
McCall Plaza is designed as an outdoor events and music venue complete with a nearly 800-square-foot covered stage and lots of landscaping and parking space for audiences. The stage is completely visible from any angle. However, two main viewpoints are available for performances, depending on the size of the audience. “One way the performers would play is to a crowd facing toward 15th St. which fits an audience size of about 150–200 people,” said Administrator of Arts, Culture & Heritage Michelle Hawkins. “The second way faces the parking lot, which is closed down for larger shows, and fits a crowd up to 1,000 people.”
Parking is a continuous element the City is working on. In regards to future large events that cost money, discounts may be given to guests who show a DART ticket. Within walking distance of the plaza are many dining options including the upcoming food trucks venue.
Although McCall Plaza is mainly setup as a rental venue for different types of performances, the City of Plano intends to host free, monthly events and concerts at the venue. Final details are still being worked out, but continue to check for updates at plano.gov/art.
“We are also looking for corporate sponsors,” said Michelle. If interested in sponsorship details for McCall Plaza events, contact Michelle Hawkins at [email protected].
Even though some facts and details are still in the works, one thing is most definitely true. The McCall Plaza will continue to grow the arts scene within the Downtown Arts District.
