NCC Fine Arts Center Almost Completed

Over a fifteen-year-planning period, the much anticipated concert hall is moving forward with its construction. 

The 13,000-square foot building stands on the corner of Ellsworth and Chicago Ave overlooking the campus of North Central College.  In honor of Dr. Myron Wentz, North Central alum, the new concert hall will be named, Wentz Concert Hall.

 “Even though it’s a small capacity it’s going to have the acoustics of either a symphony center or Carnegie Hall,” said Brian Lynch, Fine Arts Director at North Central College.  “They are taking every care to make sure this building rings like a large concert hall.”

The concert hall will have an intimate feel and is estimated to seat 609.  When designing this building Lynch said it was important to keep it small and have a warm feeling.  He promises there won’t be one bad seat in the house.

“The concert hall itself is suppose to be an A plus,” Lynch said.  “Everything about the concert hall is suppose to be perfect, nothing can be scrimped.”

The number one feature Lynch wanted was the sound proof walls.  There are also double sound barrier doors to keep outside noise from bothering audience members.

Walking into the concert hall there will be seats on the main floor and in a balcony.  The stage will have a choral balcony that can hold 150 chorus members.  Also, there is room for a whole symphony on the stage and room for a soloist in front.

The doors will open on September 30th to the public.  Lynch hopes to surprise the public with a special performer on the opening day. 

“The artist has an incredibly well-known name,” said Lynch.  “I think people will be absolutely thrilled when they find out who it is.”