MYAC Performing Arts Center

The Campaign,Vision and Impact

In 2013, MYAC acquired four acres adjacent to the Old Stockade Building, setting the stage for our dream: a MYAC campus/performing arts center. This state-of-the art concert hall designed by Booth Hansen will be partially underground to blend with our surroundings and provide MYAC with a permanent performance home. The Performance Center will additionally serve as a much-needed cultural resource for the entire region, expanding access to outstanding concerts and giving young musicians the opportunity to perform in a professional-quality environment.

We are living through a time of extraordinary cultural change—a period unlike anything we have experienced before, challenging many of the traditions and ways of life that once seemed familiar and enduring. Music education will become increasingly important as one of the avenues where young people can step away from their devices, develop their own voices, and experience the power of sustained attention, creativity, and collaboration. In an increasingly digital world, opportunities to make and experience music provide a meaningful space for connection, expression, and discovery. We believe that performances—especially those featuring young people—will be highly valued, creating more opportunities for inspiring music to enrich the lives of both performers and audiences. Every investment in the young people of today helps shape a stronger, more hopeful future for society.

Video Playlist (FAQ’s, Testimonials)

Gains for Lake County Businesses from this project:

  1. Attract and retain a skilled work force. Creativity ranks among the top five skills needed in today’s job market, according to the Conference Board. Indicators of creativity include entrepreneurship and pursuing arts-related studies. Nobel Laureates, for example, are 17 times more likely to have an arts background.

  2. Appeal to young professionals. Many young workers choose where to live based on quality of life factors like great dining, arts and culture. A vibrant local arts scene can make Lake County more attractive to this talent pool.

  3. Draw young families. Families seek high quality opportunities for their children, such as music education and concerts. Accessible arts programs make the area more appealing to families to settle in Lake County.

  4. Economic boost. A dedicated MYAC Symphony Center in Highwood would generate local economic growth by keeping performances in town, driving more spending at local restaurants, shops and businesses. The Center would also create jobs and bring new vitality to the community.

  5. Enhance quality of life and economic impact. 90% believe arts institutions are key to quality of life and 85% agree they benefit local businesses and the economy.

“Having spent the last 50 years immersed in the arts on the North Shore, I can say unequivocally that what is sorely needed is an arts center which will provide, among other things, a concert hall, not only for the talented young musicians of MYAC, but also for the many orchestras, dance groups, and other arts organizations located in Lake County. I support this ambitious venture wholeheartedly.”

— Larry Block, Founder & General Manager, Highland Park Strings

Join us in supporting MYAC and building
a bright future for the next generation.