KANSAS CITY, MO Construction is set to begin in early August on the 18,000-square-foot property Kansas City Young Audiences has purchased as their new home. But before the renovations begin, KCYA is set to claim the building at 3732 Main Street as a new creative hub in the heart of the city.

Renovations will begin soon and KCYA will move into the new space by the end of 2016. The first acting, dance and music classes will begin in early 2017.   

Helix Architecture + Design is leading the design of a flexible interior that serves the educational, workplace, event and performance functions of the organization. The new space will include dance studios, a multi-purpose classroom for art and theatre classes, a mixed-use performance and event space, offices for the staff, and office space for a resident partner. McCownGordon Construction is providing construction management services.

"Our team is thrilled to be a part of creating Kansas City Young Audiences' first permanent home," said Pat McCown, Chief Executive Officer, McCowGordon Construction. "Engaging youth in the arts is transformational and we see firsthand the impact it has on our youth and our greater community. We fully embrace and stand behind KCYA's vision to open a window to the world of art for so many in our region. I love the work that KCYA does to make this happen and believe this new facility will make KCYA even better in serving our youth. I cannot wait to welcome KCYA into their new home."  

KCYA began a $3.5 million capital campaign in May. The organization has already received strong community support for the project, most notably a lead gift of $500,000 from the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation, a $600,000 pledge from the Hall Family Foundation and a $200,000 Challenge Grant for the building renovation from the J. E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation. Other generous foundation supporters include Impact KC, the David T. Beals III, Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N. A., Trustee, the Sosland Foundation, the Miller Nichols Charitable Foundation, Michael and Leatha Cline with Kansas City Southern, the Gary Dickinson Family Foundation, various individuals and corporate donors.