Dance, Music, Theater To Infuse New Pasco Performing Arts Center

WESLEY CHAPEL, FL — Lights, camera, action. Pasco-Hernando State College will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new Instructional Performing Arts Center at 8657 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel Friday, Jan. 7 at 11 a.m.

The IPAC offers three associate of arts performing arts curriculum pathways for students who plan to transfer to a Florida public university to complete a bachelor's degree in dance, theater or music.

"It's a true honor to be the inaugural executive director of a space that will not only be a place for students to learn their craft and perform but will be a space for guest artists to come and present master classes and collaborative performances, allowing our students to perform on stage with our guests or provide technical support with lighting, sound, stage managing or costuming.The IPAC provides a creative atmosphere for learning necessary artistic and technical skills for a career in the performing arts," said IPAC Executive Director Lauren Murray.

The IPAC also offers an associate in science (AS) degree in digital media and multimedia technology with six college credit certificates. This high-demand STEM program prepares students for initial employment in several digital media and multimedia technology professions such as digital media/multimedia programmer, digital media/multimedia project manager, audiovisual technician, lighting technician, video engineer, graphic animator technical director and web designer/developer.

The facility offers 35,947 gross square feet including a 444-seat auditorium with accompanying stage and backstage areas, a large lobby, three studio classrooms, one general-purpose classroom, three computer laboratories, a video production studio, faculty and staff offices, and a conference room.

Architectural, acoustic and visual design and technology provide the proper environment necessary for outstanding instruction and learning in the performing arts.

The IPAC also accommodates joint-use opportunities for the community and Pasco County School District students to use the facility for performances, shows and presentations.

"The PHSC IPAC represents a collaborative dream realized. Our partnership with Pasco County Schools and support from our state leadership has created an opportunity for students and residents to experience the arts and arts education in a dynamic, state-of-the-art facility. The IPAC represents the beginning of something transformative for our region and life of our community," said Dr. Kevin O'Farrell, Porter campus provost.

The ribbon-cutting program will feature multiple guest speakers including college President Dr. Timothy Beard, Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore and State Rep. Randy Maggard.

Live music will be played before and after the speakers, and IPAC tours will be available.

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