As Morning Meetings go, this one was truly historic. On Tuesday, February 10th, Morristown-Beard students, faculty and staff gathered in the new Performing Arts Center for the first time.

The atmosphere was absolutely electric as members of the community entered the theater and took their seats in this remarkable facility.

“This is a dream come true,” said Headmaster Alex Curtis. “I’ve always imagined this day, and it is one of the most emotional moments in my life to finally see everyone in this space.”

This special Morning Meeting came as a surprise to the students, who were issued commemorative tickets in their advisory groups at the beginning of the day. The Morning Meeting began with thunderous applause as the lights dimmed, and the students and faculty watched a video highlighting the construction of the new Middle School and Performing Arts Center.

Dr. Curtis thanked all those who were involved in making the Performing Arts Center a reality, especially the Board of Trustees for their leadership and belief in the project. He noted that the new theater will allow Morristown-Beard School to continue many of the rich traditions of the Beard and Morristown Schools.

“Morning Meetings are such a big part of what we do here,” he said. “This new space is a confirmation that we do as a community is important, and we should have an appropriate setting to gather.”

Student Government President Tim Connor ’09 made the first official student announcement at Morning Meeting. He added that his only regret is that he won’t be here longer to enjoy the new building.

Dr. Curtis reminded the community that it was exactly a year ago when the first steel arrived on campus for the building’s frame. The new theater seats 630 people, with the Upper School sitting in the orchestra level and the Middle School sitting in the balcony.

Following the assembly, students were able to tour the building, which includes choral, instrumental and theater rooms, a dance studio, a box office, and practice spaces. All future Morning Meetings will be held in the new theater.

“We want you all to enjoy it, feel tremendous pride in it, and make great use of it,” Dr. Curtis told the students.