Events and Milestones

THE SMITH CENTER CELEBRATES ITS LATEST MILESTONE

On Thursday, February 25th The Smith Center for the Performing Arts proudly celebrated its "Topping Out" ceremony in Symphony Park. At the event, the final piece of Reynolds Hall was raised, taking it to its highest point of 170 feet.

Past Events

Groundbreaking

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts celebrated groundbreaking with a ceremonial carillon bell casting and ringing on Tuesday, May 26, 2009. The 24 lb. bronze bell was poured and polished at the construction site during a series of celebratory events over Memorial Day weekend.

Ailey II

In February 2008, The Smith Center further displayed its commitment to cultural education in Las Vegas by sponsoring a series of Ailey II workshops, master classes, and a public performance as part of its education outreach program. Activities were scheduled at various locations around the valley including the Nevada Ballet Theatre, West Las Vegas Library Theatre, Andre Agassi College Preparatory Charter School and West Preparatory Institute.

Ailey II is the second company of The Ailey Organization, created to help bridge the gap from the classroom to the stage. This modern dance company based in New York City is known for merging the spirit and energy of the country's best young dance talent with the passion and creative vision of today's most distinguished choreographers, Ailey II showcases modern dance techniques and provides dance performances, training and community programs for people of all ages.

The Soweto Gospel Choir

On March 16, 2005, The Smith Center hosted 1,200 students from around the Clark County School District for a Las Vegas premiere performance by the Soweto Gospel Choir. These students learned about African culture and traditions prior to experiencing the live performance at the House of Blues. The Foundation is proud to have touched so many young lives with this incredible performance.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir

On April 20, 2004, the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center Foundation presented in concert the legendary Mormon Tabernacle Choir. A capacity crowd of 8,000 people was treated to an extraordinary concert event. Don Snyder, Chairman of the Foundation said, "This is the kind of cultural programming we envision offering Las Vegas families in the new center."

More than 600 Clark County school students were hosted by the Foundation for the event. "What a great and exciting opportunity for our middle school and high school choir students," said Marsha Neel, director of secondary music education for the CCSD. Candy Schneider, formerly with the CCSD Partnership Office said, "we need more cultural opportunities for our students. This event was inspiring."

Proceeds from this first-ever concert event put us one step closer to making the new performing arts center a reality.