Fact Sheet

Facts and Figures

Who is paying to build the center?

Based on the success of the Freedom Aquatic and Fitness Center on the Prince William campus and the lack of a first class performance venue in the Prince William region, Prince William County, the City of Manassas and George Mason University agreed in 2004 to pay for the design and construction and equipping of the center up to a cost of $36 million. Based on projected utilization, the cost is allocated: the county 60%, university 30% and city 10%.

Construction inflation raised the cost of the building to $44 million. The $8 million dollar increase was met through a $4 million state grant and private sector support. George Mason has donated the land (valued at $3 million), fundraising management, and construction management.

The Campaign for the Hylton Center is raising a
$15 million permanent endowment from the private
sector. What is the purpose of the endowment?

The center’s income will come from two major sources: earned income (ticket sales and facility rental) and annual contributed support. In addition, income earned off the endowment will play an important role in the center’s financial stability.

No performing arts center can earn enough to meet annual expenses. To do so would mean ticket prices and rental fees so high that the community could not afford to use it.
Income earned off a permanent endowment helps close the gap between earned income and annual operating expenses. Typically, performing arts centers will earn approximately 50%-60% of its operating budget with the remainder coming from contributed support and income off endowment.

In addition to the Endowment Fund, the Campaign is raising money for an “Operating Fund.” What is that?

The Operating Fund is used to pay for pre-opening expenses as well as operating expenses once the center opens. Core staff is being hired and program and marketing materials will be developed 12 months in advance of opening.

When will the center open?

Clearing of the site began the week of April 14, 2008. Currently, the building is approximately 75% completed (June of 2009) and can now be seen from Route 234 bypass at University Blvd. Construction is projected to be complete in March of 2010 with a late May 2010 formal opening.

Who will run the performing arts center?

The Partnership Agreement signed by the county, city and the university provides for the establishment of an Executive Board to determine matters of operational and programmatic policy for the center. As outlined in the Agreement, the board will consist of 19 members appointed by the governing body of each of the partners (county, 8 members, George Mason, 3 members, Manassas, 2 members). In addition, 6 members will be appointed by the Prince William Campus Advisory Board on which are representatives of the business, government, and education communities. The board will select its own chair. Board members can serve two consecutive four-year terms.

Who will be in charge of managing and scheduling the use of the center?

The center’s Executive Board will determine overall policy with regard to scheduling, but the center Executive Director and her staff will consult widely with users to best meet the needs of all concerned.

What will the programming be like at the center?

The center’s program will reflect the wide range of performing arts activity in the region as well as the diverse interests of the community. The center will become the artistic home for many local performing arts groups, as well as serve as an additional venue for school-related activities. GMU will offer student and faculty work in music, dance, and theater. A series of performances by internationally acclaimed touring artists will also take place at the center.

Will individuals and groups be able to rent facilities in the center for private events?

Absolutely. Business, civic, arts, and service groups are encouraged to hold their events at the center. The center will also be able to host corporate meetings, business “expos,” and individual special occasions. The main hall (1,166 seats), the flexible theater
(300-seats), and the Grand Foyer (300 for a seated dinner and 600 for a reception), the rehearsal studio (capacity 100), as well as other smaller reception areas are available for rental. Catering kitchens are available in the center, as is staff support for outside events.

How much will tickets cost?

The mandate of the center is excellence, diversity and accessibility. Local groups will set their own ticket prices. For other presentations the objective is to bring the highest possible quality consistent with making it accessible to the widest possible audience.
The community’s annual financial support for the center will be very important in keeping ticket prices and rental fees moderate.

What about parking at the Hylton Center?

Absolutely free and plenty of it conveniently adjacent to the center, with designated handicapped parking and a parking circle drop-off right at the main entrance.

How can I get involved with the center?

Volunteer support is key to the Hylton Center’s success. Prior to opening we are spreading the word and raising money for the campaign in a variety of ways including hosting or attending house parties, helping build our list of those who want to learn more about the center and its program. Once open, their will be numerous volunteer opportunities available. For more information on volunteering to help make the Hylton Center a reality, please contact Executive Director, Jean Kellogg at jkellog3@gmu.edu or 703-993-9657.