“We can have five or six events going on at once,” says Samuelson.

The new facility costs $48 million, of which $39 million came from a bond measure approved by California residents. A fund-raising drive to cover the remainder has generated commitments of about $2.7 million from about 80 individuals, but more remains to be raised. Arts lovers can show their support for the center not only by purchasing tickets but also by naming a seat for themselves or a loved one for $1,000 each.

Although the primary emphasis will remain on student productions, the new facility also can accommodate visiting companies. Classical music groups, such as the Orange County's Pacific Symphony, and touring ensembles, like the Canadian Brass, may be booked into the concert hall.

“We are going into this slowly,” Samuelson noted, “but it will develop.”

Visiting companies will provide an additional incentive for county residents to get to know the center and its work, or they may come to well-regarded student productions and see stars in the making. Cal State Fullerton is among the nation’s top 16 undergraduate theater programs, according to Performing Arts Major’s College Guide. Its graduates include the Tony Award-nominated actress Linda Emond, acclaimed for her 55-minute monologue in Tony Kushner’s play "Homebody/Kabul" in New York City and Los Angeles; Rodney Gilfry, who originated the lead in the opera "Sophie’s Choice"; Linda Woolverton, author of the screenplay for "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Lion King"; and Marc Cherry, creator of last season’s hit television series "Desperate Housewives."

Area residents have one more incentive to come to the center: a new, 2,500-space parking structure right next door. Parking is free on weekends, when most performances take place.

Potential patrons of the arts may pursue naming opportunities of all sizes, ranging from $1,000 to $10 million. To contact University Advancement, call Milly Muzzy, director of development for the College of the Arts, at (714) 278-3256 or e-mail mmuzzy@fullerton.edu.

For more information on performing arts programs, visit the university website at www.fullerton.edu/arts/events.

To receive a monthly schedule, call the box office at (714) 278-3371.

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