Austin Opera has announced plans for a new 16,000-square-foot headquarters. The $7.5 million capital campaign project will establish a programming, rehearsal and administrative hub at 5811 Trade Center Drive, addressing the company’s need for a dedicated space
to expand its programming and community engagement efforts.
Located in a landmark building originally created by the engineers of the Congress Avenue Bridge expansion, the new centre will feature a 195-seat performance theatre, rehearsal spaces, teaching and practice studios, a costume shop, a large outdoor reception area and administrative offices. This multi-functional space will enable Austin Opera to offer year-round programming and provide much-needed affordable performance and rehearsal space for Austin’s arts community.
Annie Burridge, Austin Opera’s General Director and CEO, emphasised the transformative nature of this project: “This new performance centre is a historic step for Austin Opera to expand our audience, secure a sustainable future and provide essential spaces for the performing arts community in Austin.”
Notably, the new location in the culturally diverse 78744 postcode aligns with Austin Opera’s commitment to deepening connections with the Latinx community. Claudia Chapa, Curator of Hispanic & Latinx Programming, highlighted the potential impact: “Our new home will contribute to enriching Austin’s cultural landscape and shape the new works that emerge from our residency programme.”
The project timeline is as follows:
- 10 June 2024: Austin Opera took ownership of the property
- 3 September 2024: Administrative offices relocated to the new site
- 8 January 2025: Retrofit construction to begin on the artistic wing
- October 2025: Anticipated opening of the Sarah and Ernest Butler Performance Center at Austin Opera
With $3.67 million of its $7.5 million capital campaign goal already secured, Austin Opera is poised to create a new cultural hub that will serve both the company and the broader Austin arts community for years to come.