George Mason University, Hylton Performing Arts Center Manassas, Virginia

Three distinct public institutions- George Mason University, City of Manassas, and Prince William County-armed with far-reaching vision and persistence, committed to creating a place special to all.

  • Location

    Manassas, Virginia

  • Sector

    Arts

  • Service

    Architecture

  • Client

    George Mason University

  • Status

    Completed

  • Size

    84,500 SF
    1,120-Seat Multi-Purpose Theater
    270-Seat Studio Theater

Meetings held throughout a multi-year process with university personnel and community arts groups ensured that the final outcome met the needs of all the participants. Now, a landmark building is a key component in the formation of a cultural focus in the region.

The opera-style performance hall represents a benchmark in modern theater design for compact layout and audience interaction. The tight horseshoe shaped hall with three vertical tiers of surrounding boxes create a setting in which no seat is farther than 90 feet from the proscenium.

The intimate space offers a place where every performance, no matter the content or style, allows the audience to be fully immersed in the action. The ‘family boxes’ reinvent traditional seating that accommodate from 2 to 59 people and are structured to encourage the attendance of families with children and varied student groups.

Awards

College Search Degree: 25 Most Amazing Arts Centers, 2015