Last week as students returned to Oakdale High School, theater as well as choir students were able to finally take in the new Performing Arts Room.

Formerly the wrestling room and previously the school library, the building which shares a common wall with the OHS Theater was transformed over the summer to a state-of-the-art performing arts space.

The multi-purpose room is complete with mirrored walls, dressing rooms, an expansive make-up space as well as risers for the performers to use in rehearsal.

“This really helps when practicing with dance routines and how one will look on the stage,” performing arts instructor Bryan Mills said of the 24-foot mirrored wall.

Mills also noted that in the middle of the space are four levels of choral platforms which can be taken down and transported to the theater for concerts. The platforms can be adjusted in height for the same level as a working stage. Small one act plays can be put on in the new performing arts room where the audience can sit around the entire stage and watch a live production.

“The room also has a brand new sound system with its own mics, a new computer, new desk,” Mills shared about the space that was a long time coming. “We also have two viewing monitors that display anything on the computer screen for the students to visually see assignments, lessons, and music. These monitors are also connected to a camera in the theater so when a production is on stage, students who are in the performing arts room will be able to watch live what is happening on the stage via the monitors and get ready for their entrances.”

The location of the new performing arts room is another bonus, making the transition from theater to “classroom” setting both seamless and ideal.

Mills noted that he was given the task of designing the space to meet the needs of the performing arts program by Superintendent Marc Malone.

“Marc found various funding accounts to purchase the equipment and upgrade the building. Our own maintenance staff did much of the work too,” the teacher said. “When the students came on campus this week for the first time in a year, they fell in love with the space and were so happy to be working in it.”