Construction on the new ArtWorks Center has begun. However, it would not be complete without a celebration.

At 5 p.m. on Tuesday, we will have a wall-breaking to officially kick-off the build-out of the new Center. Everyone is invited to attend, and BYOH (Bring Your Own Hammer).

Painting by James Wegner

The new ArtWorks Center is located at 300 North Main Street in downtown Austin.

Even though construction has begun, we still need to raise $230,000 more to open the doors. Please donate today to make the Center a reality.

Donations can be made online at austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934 and we will pick up a check. Donations of any size will help us reach our goal. In preparation of opening the new center, we will be presenting the last show at the Oak Park Mall location.

“Retrospective” will feature the artwork of James Wegner, a man who has been very influential in bringing the visual arts to Austin.

Please join us from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 4 for the show’s open house. Live music and refreshments will be provided. While preparations for the Center are in full gear, we still have activities happening at the Historic Paramount Theatre.

Northwestern Singers honor Lawrence Welk

The Northwestern Singers will present their spring show, “A Tribute to Lawrence Welk” at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 4.

The show will feature various themes used by Lawrence Welk over the years, including love, seasons, celestial and signature songs.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students.

They can be purchased online at austinareaarts.org or at the Paramount Box Office Tuesday-Friday 12 to 5 p.m.