Gonzaga to break ground on new performing arts center

Gonzaga University plans to break ground next spring on a new performing arts center to be built near the Jundt Art Center and Museum on the west side of campus.

Called the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, the $30 million facility will be funded through a major bequest from Woldson, a local philanthropist who died in 2014 at the age of 104.

The two-story, nearly 58,000-square-foot building will include a 750-seat theater, a 150-seat recital hall, a two-story lobby with a box office, and classroom space, offices, dressing and makeup rooms, and a “green room.” It will be used for music, theater and dance programs.

It is expected to open by winter 2018, according to a news release. It will be located immediately south of the former Knights of Columbus building on Desmet Avenue; that building is being renovated to house faculty offices, studios, and practice and rehearsal spaces.

Woldson left Gonzaga three prized, income-producing waterfront properties in downtown Seattle when she died. Their market value was estimated at $55 million in 2015.

“I will always cherish the opportunity I had to work with Miss Woldson and am committed to assuring her legacy shines brightly as a beacon – illuminating our students and the community in ways that would make her proud,” Gonzaga President Thayne McCulloh said in a news release.