Nebraska Ag Connection - Platte Valley Companies Performing Arts Center Dedicated

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Platte Valley Companies Performing Arts Center Dedicated
Nebraska Ag Connection - 06/24/2019

Western Nebraska Community College dedicated its new performing arts center this past week. The dedication honored the Platte Valley Companies Performing Arts Center, the Judy Chaloupka Theater, and the Kelley Bean Box Office, which encompasses the first completed phase of the $18.5 million renovation that is currently underway on the Scottsbluff Campus.

"Thanks to a collective effort from our donors, faculty, staff, and students, we worked together to achieve this dream renovation," said WNCC President Dr. Todd Holcomb. "To me, the arts have been one of the key cornerstones to my experience here in the Panhandle, and now we have this wonderful state-of-the-art facility for everyone to enjoy."

The newly renovated space is the first time the beloved "Little Theatre" has received a facelift since its opening 50 years ago. In that time, the theater grew to become a mainstay in the regional arts scene with ongoing performances by WNCC Performing Arts students and community members. Named after longtime Theatre West Executive Director, the new Judy Chaloupka Theater is equipped with a revolving stage and top-of-the-line sound quality and technology.

Beyond the theater, the addition of the Platte Valley Companies Performing Arts Center includes a commons area for patrons to gather and socialize before and after performances, separate practice spaces for vocal and instrumental music, and office spaces for WNCC Performing Arts faculty.

"We are truly honored to be a part of WNCC, and to reinvest in our communities," said Platte Valley Companies CEO/President Hod Kosman. "There's no better place to get a return on your investment than through WNCC, and we're proud to be a part of this facility."

Also attending Thursday's dedication was Kelley Bean Company President Kevin Kelley, who is a WNCC alum and longtime supporter of the College. Kelley, who was highly involved during his time at WNCC, credits his former faculty and staff for helping him find the right track in life.

Following the dedication, those in attendance were invited to tour the space, led by WNCC students.

"In looking back over the past several years, and all the people that have helped bring this center to fruition, I am filled with gratitude," said Jennifer Reisig, executive director of the WNCC Foundation. "I can't thank everyone enough for all of their support of this exciting new space."

A ribbon cutting for the entire Scottsbluff Campus Main Building renovation is planned for the afternoon of Aug. 15.

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