By Dane Anderson, Staff Writer

The Eanes school district will fling wide its doors in open house celebration Wednesday for the newly renovated Research Center Library and Performing Arts Facility, formerly known as the Fine Arts Facility, at Westlake High School.

Renovation of both facilities cost an estimated $18 million.

The open house will run from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., with the WHS Chap Court serving as a central meeting place for guided tours. Administrators, architects and the project management team members involved in the multi-million dollar renovation project will be available to answer questions from the public. 

“As our 2006 bond program begins to wind down, we would like the community that supported it to have the opportunity to see the wonderful outcomes that will serve our students for many years to come,” said Nola Wellman, district superintendent. “The new Research Center and Performing Arts area at Westlake High School are carefully designed facilities that elevate Eanes ISD to a level that will continue to challenge our students.”

To showcase the potential of the upgraded performing arts space, student entertainment has been arranged. The Madrigals will be performing in the new Concert Hall from 4:40-5:50 p.m., student pianists will perform in the Recital Hall from 4:50-5:50 p.m., and the Westlake Improv Team will perform in the Lecture Hall from 5-6 p.m.

Performances will run in brief segments and staggered so that guest can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, said Dale Whitaker, district communications director.

To emphasize the asset the newly renovated spaces provide to the community, members of the Summit at Westlake Hills have been invited to the open house event. 

The celebration is open to the public and free of charge. Refreshments will be served, and parking is available in lots outside the Chap Court and the Performing Arts Facility.