Hoover City Schools District Holds Ribbon Cutting for Performing Arts Center at Hoover High School

(Hoover, AL)— The Hoover City Schools District (HCS) celebrated a momentous occasion on Thursday, April 25, with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the highly anticipated Performing Arts Center at Hoover High School (HHS). The $15.4M facility, which spans 36,000 square feet, marks a significant milestone for the district. The ribbon-cutting event brought together district and school leaders, city officials, project developers, and HCS students and staff, all eager to witness the historic unveiling of the Performing Arts Center. The facility addresses the longstanding need for a dedicated space to accommodate the remarkable talents of HHS's performing arts students. 

HCS Superintendent Dr. Kevin Maddox said, “The Hoover Board of Education’s investment in the new Performing Arts Center underscores the district’s commitment to providing our students with the best resources. This state-of-the-art facility addresses the pressing need for more space to showcase our district’s performing arts programs. It symbolizes our commitment to providing students with unparalleled opportunities for artistic expression. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we look forward to witnessing the countless performances and experiences that will enrich the lives of our students and community members alike." 

Hoover Board of Education member Amy Tosney said, “I have many emotions today, but mostly I’m filled with joy. This building is a culmination of vision, determination, and passion. Thank you to every person involved in bringing this building to fruition. As we celebrate this day, I think about all the people it will touch and the endless possibilities it holds. May it be a place of inspiration, creativity, and joy. Albert Einstein said, ‘Logic will get you from A to B, but the arts will take you everywhere.’ ”

The new Performing Arts Center seamlessly integrates with the existing HHS band room, connected by a convenient hallway. It boasts impressive features, including 940 seats, an orchestra pit, a full theatrical lighting and sound package, a full-fly curtain loft, an on-site scene construction workshop directly behind the stage, and a fully automated theatrical rigging system.

HHS Principal Jennifer Hogan expressed her enthusiasm for the new facility.  Hogan said, "Everyone is so excited about the new Performing Arts Center. Our students win national and state competitions and now have a first-class facility to perform for the community. Today, we proudly unveil this state-of-the-art facility, which exceeds the needs of our thriving performing arts department. I am confident that the opportunities afforded by this remarkable facility will inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and elevate the artistic achievements of our students for years to come." 

The celebration offered a glimpse into the future of performing arts education for the district. During the program, the attendees enjoyed a special tour of the Performing Arts Center, and HHS's Grace Note and First Edition Jazz Band provided entertainment. Approximately twenty-six percent of HHS students are involved in the arts, highlighting the need for a facility to accommodate their talents. 

Conner Hornsby, a First Edition Jazz Band member and a senior at HHS, said, "We've always had to perform in a gym, so having a dedicated stage and auditorium where we can sound our best and the audience can comfortably enjoy the show is amazing. We have many talented bands, choirs, and theatre productions and need a place to really showcase that," said Hornsby.

The new Performing Arts Center serves as an exceptional venue for HHS's student performances and schools across the district. Additionally, it will be available to lease for community performances and events. The facility represents a monumental achievement for the district, poised to become a vibrant hub of performing arts excellence.

About Hoover City Schools

Hoover City Schools (HCS) is a top-rated public school district committed to providing quality education and fostering academic excellence for each student across the district. With a focus on student success and achievement, HCS strives to create a safe and caring environment that nurtures learning and prepares students for future challenges. For more information or to join our team, visit hoovercityschools.net.