I’m like a proud parent… this week with the opening of the newly named AT+T Performing Arts Center. R+R has been working on this project in one capacity or another for the past nine years. We did the initial gala invitation (ACT I) through Neimans in 2001 and in 2005 began to work as their local design firm. We (like so many others) have poured our hearts and hours into this project from invitations to the preview center and so much more. The work we have produced for them has been some of the most incredible and progressive pieces to come out of the studio to date.

Because of that history, the architecture of these two buildings has had me literally SWOONING for years. I still look at the Wyly almost daily and think “This is in Dallas? Not Chicago or Seattle?” The Winspear’s blood red curved glass is breathtaking. Dallas is not short on amazing buildings, just down Flora Street you will find the Meyerson, designed by I.M.Pei.

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SO - with that said this morning a Dedication Ceremony kicks off a week long celebration of the Center’s Grand Opening which will wrap up at the end of the week with the last big gala all throughout the Center (ACT III) and a full day of public festivities on Sunday. There are several events throughout the week I just want locals to be aware of (in the event that you aren’t quite as close to this project as we are). You can look at the schedule here but I highly recommend the architectural forums, the David Sanborn concert and of course anything on Sunday. CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULE HERE.

Curtain, designed by Guillermo Kuitca

photo credits: Iwan Baan, Jeffrey Buehner and Tim Hursley