OMAHA — A new $108 million facility designed to promote education and engagement in the performing arts has officially opened in the heart of Omaha.
The Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement, located at 11th and Dodge Streets, aims to inspire Nebraskans to participate in and appreciate the performing arts.
The center, which is part of the Dick & Mary Holland Campus, is expected to serve as a vital hub for cultural growth and workforce development in the region.
A Momentous Day for Omaha Performing Arts
The opening ceremony, held on Thursday, featured a ribbon-cutting and performances from local students, including a group from Nelson Mandela Elementary in North Omaha.
Joan Squires, president of Omaha Performing Arts, expressed her excitement, calling the day “momentous” and celebrating the realization of a long-envisioned space designed to serve the community.
“This center is exactly why we built the building — for young people and the entire community to experience and participate in the performing arts,” Squires said.
The Tenaska Center, a 100,000-square-foot facility, is primarily funded by private donors and supported by about $9 million in public funds. It includes classrooms, studios, rehearsal halls, and an event hall, all aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students of the performing arts.
With its glassy, transparent exterior, the center creates a sense of openness and connection to nearby downtown investments.
Enhancing Omaha’s Arts and Economic Landscape
As the largest arts organization in Nebraska, Omaha Performing Arts generates an annual economic impact of more than $61 million. The new Tenaska Center is expected to contribute to workforce development and attract talent by showcasing Omaha’s commitment to arts and culture.
The Tenaska Center is part of the broader Dick & Mary Holland Campus, which also includes the Holland Center and the Steelhouse Omaha live music venue. Together, these venues are designed to create a vibrant, arts-driven environment in downtown Omaha.
Community Engagement and Future Projects
In addition to hosting educational programs, the Tenaska Center will offer community events to engage Omaha residents. A free public open house will take place on March 22 from noon to 4 p.m., with additional activities planned for April 11, including performances, interactive experiences, and food stations.
Looking ahead, Omaha Performing Arts plans additional projects, including a renovation of the Mammel Courtyard at the Holland Center and enhancements to the Steelhouse venue, as well as preparations for the Orpheum Theater’s 100th anniversary in 2027.
“We want to make sure our buildings stay state-of-the-art and serve everyone here in Omaha and the state,” Squires said.
About the Design and Development
The Tenaska Center was designed by Ennead Architects, with Omaha-based HDR collaborating on the Holland Center and Omaha-based Holland Basham Architects assisting with the design of the Steelhouse and Tenaska buildings.
The project also involved several partners, including Fisher Dachs, Threshold Acoustics, Kiewit Building Group, and TRI Project Solutions.
