PAC To Have Grand Celebration For Grand Opening

Sept. 17, 2010
SHSU Media Contact: Tara Lestarjette

Sam Houston State University will present an evening filled with performances of music, dance and theatre during the grand opening celebration of the James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center on Sept. 30.

The evening will include a ribbon cutting, performances to showcase the talents of the departments within the Performing Arts Center and the opportunity to tour the building.

“The PAC is a fabulous venue that we are incredibly proud of,” said Maggie Collum, director of university events in the Office of the President. “We are expecting the grand opening to draw a really large crowd.”

From 6:30–8 p.m., attendees can browse the building and choose from a variety of entertainment options presented from the departments of music, dance and theatre.

“We are very excited to have a location that brings these departments together,” said Dana Nicolay, College of Arts and Sciences associate dean, professor of dance and production manager for the event.

Outdoor performances from the Steel Drum Band will take place at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Jazz Ensemble at 6:30 p.m.

The grand opening ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. in the PAC Concert Hall where University President Dana Gibson will welcome those attending and remarks will be made by Jaimie Hebert, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, before the ribbon cutting.

The SHSU School of Music will display its talent in the PAC Concert Hall with a Symphony Orchestra performance at 6:30, followed by the Wind Ensemble at 7 p.m. and the Chorale at 7:30 p.m.

The Faculty Chamber Winds and Brass will perform in the PAC Recital Hall at 6:30 p.m., with the Faculty Chamber Strings and Piano at 7 p.m. and the Faculty Chamber Voice, Harp and Guitar at 7:30 p.m.

The Café Society Cabaret Singers also will present in 30-minute increments from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

The department of theatre and dance will feature performances from the cast of Nine in The Erica Starr Theatre in 30-minute increments from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Complimentary parking will be available at the University Parking Garage.

“I know this venue and the talent it will showcase will bring together our community and many new visitors to Huntsville,” said Collum. “It is truly a new beginning for the performing arts.”

For more information, contact Collum at 936.294.3415 or events@shsu.edu.

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