Doane University starts construction of new performing arts center
By Jolie Peal , Reporter Nebraska Public Media News
Jan. 17, 2025, 4 p.m. ·

Doane University officials broke ground on a new performing arts center Friday.
The building will feature practice rooms, band rehearsal spaces, a green room, dressing rooms and a theater with over 200 seats. It will be in addition to the existing spaces the programs have.
Andrew Feyes, instrumental music director, said this project shows how much the college supports the arts.
“This investment in the growth of the arts in a time when investment in education is something that is lacking a little bit is proving profound,” He said. “It’s going to have a massive ripple effect here at Doane.”
This project comes almost a year after the University of Nebraska Board of Regents voted to end the theatre academic program at the Kearney campus.
Doane University President Roger Hughes said he can’t speak to what’s happening at other campuses, but Doane is committed to investing in arts programs.
“Being able to critically think, write, lead…those skill sets are going to translate to the economy as it does change going forward,” Hughes said. “That’s how we frankly take care of our graduates once they leave is to instill in them habits and values that are going to make them successful for the rest of their life.”
The construction project will cost about $23 million. Hughes said most of the new performing arts center is covered by private donors, and it’s set to be completed in 2026.