On Sunday, October 29, Near and Arnold’s School of Performing Arts and Cultural Education (SPACE) will host an open house in the newly expanded building at 508 W. Perkins Street, Ukiah. This gathering celebrates the completion of SPACE’s state-of-the-art theater. The entire Ukiah community is encouraged to drop by anytime between 2-4:30 pm for food, beverages, fun, and tours of the new space!

Since acquiring the old St. Mary of the Angels Church in 1999, SPACE has been working to create an arts center that could serve young performing artists and the community. A seismic retrofit and a new roof were completed in 2002, the theater lobby and restrooms were added in 2004, the auditorium was renovated in 2010, staff offices and a dance studio were added in 2012, and now, after being closed for over a year, the completely renovated theater is ready for use!

Those who attend on October 29 will be able to tour the facilities and see the expanded stage, the adjoined Education Wing and auditorium, and the new school lobby. In addition to seeing the incredible theater that is nearly two decades in the making, families can enjoy hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, face painting and other fun activities.

The event is completely free and open to the public. The new theater will officially break ground with the Winter Concert featuring Holly Near & Friends on December 16, followed by SPACE’s production of Madagascar Jr. in January of 2018. This open house will be held rain or shine, so spread the word and come enjoy the new space at SPACE!