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Austin Opera Takes Bold Step Forward with New Performance Center

Austin’s newest performance center will include a theater and rehearsal space, teaching and practice studios, a costume shop and more

Austin Opera announced plans for a new performing arts center. (photo courtesy of Austin Opera)
Austin Opera announced plans for a new performing arts center. (photo courtesy of Austin Opera)

In a move that promises to reshape Austin’s cultural landscape, Austin Opera has unveiled plans for a new 16,000-square-foot performance center and administrative headquarters. The ambitious project, slated to open in fall 2025, will transform a landmark building at 5811 Trade Center Drive into a vibrant space featuring a 195-seat theater, rehearsal spaces and educational facilities.

Sarah and Ernest Butler Performance Center

The project, which has already secured $3.67 million of its $7.5 million capital campaign goal, will be named the Sarah and Ernest Butler Performance Center in recognition of the lead contributors. The Butlers, longtime patrons of Austin’s arts scene, have been instrumental in supporting the opera company’s growth, including their recent $3 million endowment for Spanish language programming.

“This new performance center 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,” said Annie Burridge, Austin Opera’s General Director and CEO. The strategic location in the culturally diverse 78744 zip code, near the General Consulate of Mexico, underscores the company’s commitment to serving Austin’s Hispanic and Latinx communities.

Rendering of Austin Opera's new performance space (by 3DW)
Rendering of Austin Opera’s new performance space (by 3DW)

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Much more than just a performance space

The facility’s design will capitalize on the building’s existing 17-foot ceilings, making it ideal for rehearsals and performances. The renovation will include four rehearsal and teaching studios, a costume shop, and administrative offices. The venue will also feature outdoor event space and ample parking for evening and weekend performances.

This expansion comes at a pivotal time for Austin Opera, which has been steadily building its community presence through initiatives like Concerts at the Consulate and its Residency for Latinx Creatives program. The new facility will enable the company to offer year-round programming and provide much-needed affordable performance space for other local arts organizations.

Alongside the facility announcement, Austin Opera unveiled a fresh brand identity designed by Playground, promising “an experience” that fuses classical opera’s timeless elegance with contemporary interpretations. The rebranding reflects the company’s evolution into a dynamic cultural institution that celebrates Austin’s diverse community.

Construction on the artistic wing is scheduled to begin in January 2025, with the grand opening planned for October 2025. This expansion represents a significant milestone in Austin Opera’s 38-year history and promises to strengthen its position as a cornerstone of the Central Texas’s performing arts community. Learn more at austinopera.org.

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