The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College is now home to a $26 million, state-of-the art performing arts center unlike anything else in South Texas. The center, designed by Studio RED, includes advanced acoustics, lighting and performing space to allow audiences to experience professional performances. Housing an 800-seat auditorium with proscenium theater, adjustable acoustics and a stage to accommodate a 150-piece orchestra, the center also has three rehearsal rooms, catwalks, dressing rooms, a green room and a lobby that also serves as a visual arts gallery.
The dramatic interior design includes a dramatic red staircase, sparkling starburst chandeliers and a spacious terrace overlooking the Fort Brown Resaca. According to Jared Wood, AIA and Studio RED Partner, “We wanted to create a building that would be an icon for the university as well as a professional performing arts space for students. The center was designed to be flexible and includes an acoustically tunable hall for performances ranging from theater to opera and solo instruments to a full-stage band.”
The new center, centrally located along the campus waterway and across from the historic Fort Brown complex, is designed to become a focal point for the community. According to Chancellor Francisco G. Cigarro, M.D., “I’m confident the new Arts Center will further enliven UTB/TSC’s campus and will be a gem for generations—as well as the entire community of Brownsville—to enjoy.”
