A FIRST LOOK AT THE SMITH CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

By Chet Yarbrough

March 10, 2012 is grand opening for the new Las Vegas – Smith Center for Performing Arts.

Smith Center Plaza Entry-North Side

Final preparations are being made.

The Final Setting of the Smith Statues at The Smith Center for Performing Arts

It is evident when photographing the area or when looking through windows that a good deal remains unfinished but the Theater is a grand site, showcasing the great skill of Las Vegas entertainment industry builders.

Theater to the Left is Finished-Center and Right Interiors Unfinished

Any resident of the Valley that has not purchased a season ticket is missing one of the grandest Performing Arts events in Las Vegas history.  The lobby of the Performing Arts’ theater is spectacularly apppointed.

Smith Center Lobby and Main Theater Entrance

Though not a great admirer of the exterior design, the fit and finish of the interior dazzles the senses; i.e. the utility and beauty of the theater, though much smaller, reminds one of La Scala with its box seats and stage proximity.  It may not have the size of La Scala or Lincoln Center in New York but Smith Center offers an opportunity to sit in a surrounding that may result in that once in a life time cultural experience.

Smith Center Stage from Second Level Box Seats

These have been hard times for Las Vegas Valley residents but optimism blooms with this monument to the Performing Arts.

Smith Center Second Level Box Seats

Smith Center Founders List @ Northeast Theater Entry

Great applause is due tax-payers, financial contributors, and founders of this cultural jewel in the desert.  Bravo Las Vegas.