3 minute read
PERFECT SPACE - Amphitheater finds natural location by Covered Bridge
A project funded by state appropriations will open countless opportunities for outdoor engagement and entertainment in one the most picturesque greenspaces on campus. Its location near the Covered Bridge is a natural fit that will require minimal groundwork and provide a scenic environment.
An upcoming addition to the University of West Alabama campus will provide faculty, students and staff a unique outdoor space suitable for a variety of uses.
Construction is slated to begin this fall for an amphitheater nestled in a greenspace between the Student Union Building (SUB) and the historic Alamuchee Covered Bridge landmark that spans the duck pond on campus, explained Chris Egbert, director of UWA’s physical plant. The amphitheater will seat 500 and feature a covered stage with the picturesque natural backdrop of the Covered Bridge.
Multiple locations around campus were considered before the final desitination in the open air space was chosen. Accessibility, along with available existing parking, the amount of groundwork required, existing infrastructure, and overall functional space were all taken into consideration. Groundwork is expected to be somewhat minimal because of the natural lay of the land. The area has been the site of many concerts and musical perfor- mances over several decades. In recent years, the annual Serendipity talent show has been held in the area, on the lawn adjacent to the SUB. In the fall of 2021, multi-platinum recording artist Sammy Kershaw performed for a sea of alumni, students, and fans from across the region, harkening back to the days when headline artists often made impromptu stops in Livingston between major city tour dates. The new amphitheater gives hints of more events like that.
With its accessible location and ample parking options, the amphitheater is expected to host concerts, theatrical performances, academic classes and student activities events. Funding for the project is coming in part from a $450,000 supplemental appropriation the university received last year from the Alabama Legislature.
“We have envisioned this project for a long time, recognizing that we had some natural spaces on our campus that would be ideal for an amphitheater,” said UWA President Ken Tucker.
“With more than 600 acres of campus, we want to take advantage of the natural spaces that give students and visitors an opportunity to enjoy the scenic views, and this will be positioned in an area that is heavily traveled but still has an open-air, natural environment that we believe will be very enjoyable.” Plans for the venue are underway, with a broad range of opportunities and accommodations being considered.
“We will be able to hold concerts and performances in the amphitheater, host different types of programming and student events, use it as an outdoor classroom, and several other academic activities. We are grateful for this appropriation from the State of Alabama and the opportunity to add this unique venue to our campus and serve students and visitors for many years to come,” Tucker added.
Construction is expected to take between six and eight months to complete.
