History of the PAC

After years of design and planning, the MCC Performing Arts Center opened in 2014, bringing to the East Valley a much desired performance venue. Originally debuting in October 1979 as a Harkins Movie Theatre, it was operated by Mann Theatres. Thirty years later, MCC purchased the Harkins and adjacent Fuddruckers properties. In fall 2004, voters approved a $951 million bond for the Maricopa County Community College District, which included funding for MCC to expand and remodel the former movie theater.

Designed by Jones Studio of Phoenix, construction of the PAC began in 2012 and includes a 450-seat theatre. Extensive remodeling of what was the old Harkins building resulted in a band room, choral room and production support space.

Dr. Rodney Holmes, MCC Dean of Instruction, said “In the past, MCC held almost 100 performances around the East Valley that will now have a home in our state-of-the-art teaching and performance facility. This will help us reduce the expenses for renting performance space and decrease the demands on the MCC Theatre. The new Performing Arts Center showcases the talents of students, faculty and staff while providing opportunities for the community to enjoy the performing arts.”