Goppert Performing Arts Center

Avila University, a private liberal arts college in the suburbs of Kansas City, has seen tremendous growth in its performing arts program. Some performing arts majors have even grown by as much as 400 percent in the past 15 years. With this increased enrollment came challenges, particularly with Avila’s existing facilities. The Goppert-Borserine building was built in 1974 and has served as Avila’s theatre, as well as provided classroom space, faculty offices and student lounge areas.

Location: Kansas City, MO
Size: 23,000 SF

With the renovation and expansion of the current building, Avila will establish the new Goppert Performing Arts Center. The project is comprised of a new black box theatre, additional choir and rehearsal space, a designated scene shop, and a lobby expansion. The new lobby will act as a unifier between the existing building and the new construction. Its design is intended to be both welcoming and sophisticated, a reflection of Avila’s community spirit and the quality of its program. The lobby also faces a busy road, creating a connection and new focal point for the campus.

Since 2006, Helix has partnered with Avila to transform their campus, starting with a campus master plan that established a clear path toward Avila’s future. Other completed projects include a renovation to the School of Nursing, a new Student Success Center, a renovation of the Orscheln Chapel and the creation of a new and expanded Thornhill Art Gallery.