Rogers Fine Arts Center undergoes renovations

     It has been 24 years since the dedication of the Taylor Bott Rogers Fine Arts Center at Campbell University, but visitors to the center will discover many new amenities this fall.

     “The building was erected in 1984, it was time for modest interior renovation and redecoration of the main lobbies,” said Dr. John Roberson, vice president for Marketing and Planning for the university. “Whether attending a play in Ellis Theatre or a musical event in Scott Concert Hall, we hope the improvements to the building’s ambience will enrich visitors’ overall experience.”

     Renovations to the Georgian style building, which houses Campbell’s Fine Arts program, have been concentrated in the areas of Scott Concert Hall and Ellis Theatre. They include new carpeting in both lobbies as well as the interior of the theatre and concert hall; the installation of three enormous brass chandeliers in each lobby; and new lobby furniture in the Neoclassical style of 18th century designer Thomas Chippendale.

     The two-story center contains 50,000 square feet and three inter-connected sections, each with its own A-type roof. At opposite ends of the building are the 400-seat Ellis Theatre and Scott Concert Hall. The E.P. Sauls Art Gallery extends the length of the common hall connecting the auditorium and theatre. Classrooms, practice rooms, a theatre workshop and faculty offices occupy the remaining space.

     Since opening its doors in 1984, the center has been an entertainment venue for Harnett County, featuring countless musical and theatre events as well as performances by visiting artists like the Vienna Boys Choir, the Lawrence Welk All-Star band and the North Carolina Symphony.

     “Today a dream is realized,” said Dr. Norman Adrian Wiggins at the building dedication in 1984 “As we accept the Taylor Bott Rogers Fine Arts Center, we accept the responsibility to see that the programs offered are of unexcelled quality.”

      The Rogers Fine Arts Center is named in memory of Campbell benefactor and friend, Dr. Taylor Bott Rogers and the Rogers family.