Canton Performing Arts Center

Canton, SD

Project Specifications
Architecture Incorporated
SEA, Inc
Henry Carlson Construction
Project Highlights
  • Total Footprint: 40,000 sf
  • Total Precast: 46,680 sf of Hollowcore and Insulated Wall Panels
  • 1,000 Seat Auditorium
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“Our Performing Arts Center is a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility that not only secures the legacy of fine-arts in our school district but will serve the students, staff and community well for many years to come.”

Terry Gerber
Superintendent, Canton School District

“Unlike most building construction projects that are built from the ground up, the PAC, once the main structure was complete, was built top down. All of the equipment, catwalks and acoustical features unique to a PAC, were built first with floors being poured much later in the schedule than typically seen.”

Joe Turpeinen
Superintendent, Henry Carlson Construction, LLC.

To meet the needs of both the Canton School District and the community, Architecture Incorporated designed this 40,000 square-foot performing arts center. Though it is attached to the Canton High School via a secure entrance, it has a separate lobby and restrooms so that community groups can also use the space.

Acoustical and theatre consultants collaborated with the firm to help inform the design of space and ensure high-quality acoustical performance. The auditorium seats 1,000 and includes a balcony, side performance decks, orchestra lift, catwalks, sound booth, lighting control rooms, and a fully equipped proscenium stage with a fly gallery.

Additional spaces include dressing rooms, areas to apply makeup, a scene shop, storage and a lobby with space for concessions, box office and coat check. The exterior building materials were selected to seamlessly blend with the existing school while simultaneously boasting a unique look and feel. The interior finishes are contemporary with wood accents, using Canton’s school colors in a sophisticated way.