Overview

Cerritos College has officially commenced construction on its new Performing Arts Center, marking a significant milestone for the institution. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on March 6, 2019, attended by members of the Cerritos Board of Trustees and community supporters.

This $80-million project, funded by Measure G Bond dollars, aims to replace the aging Burnight Theatre and enhance the college's facilities for student artists and entertainment professionals.

Key details

  • The new Performing Arts Center will cover 70,000 gross square feet.
  • It is located in the center of the Cerritos College campus, immediately south of Falcon Square.
  • The facility will feature a 400-seat state-of-the-art theatre.
  • A smaller black box performance area will also be included in the design.
  • Support spaces will be available for various instructional needs.
  • The Music Department will benefit from instructional labs, lecture halls, band rooms, and practice rooms within the new center.
  • Faculty offices will be housed in the new facility as well.
  • A donation of $500,000 from former dean Dr. Connie Mayfield will be used for purchasing grand pianos for the center.
  • Total donations for the project have reached $3.3 million.
  • Marisa Perez, Board Vice President, emphasized the importance of community support in realizing this project.
  • The new center is seen as a vital step towards modernizing Cerritos College's infrastructure.

Context

This initiative reflects Cerritos College's commitment to providing quality education and facilities that cater to the evolving demands of the workforce, ensuring that students have access to modern resources.

What happens next

As construction progresses, the college will continue to update the community on the development of the Performing Arts Center and its anticipated benefits for students and faculty.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the completion timeline and specific opening date for the Performing Arts Center have not been confirmed.