Performing-arts centers can provide benefits at the high school and collegiate levels, and administrators can take steps now to get the show started. When a new performing-arts center comes to town, local businesses profit. Events and performances draw visitors to the community. Ideally, a performing-arts center will play many roles: entertainment venue, gathering space, resource for working professionals and learning hub. Flexibility, combined with a smart design, will enable the facility to have a strong economic impact. Besides the financial benefits, a performing-arts center can enhance the fine-arts curriculum, especially in terms of production. Students can use a performance auditorium to get hands-on experience with catwalks, lighting, sets and audiovisual technology. Performing-arts centers also can contribute to an expansion of programs in music, theater and dance. Lecturers and professional productions provide students more educational opportunities. And, a performing-arts center's design quality may help a student decide to attend a particular college. This article discusses several considerations when creating performing-arts centers that enrich communities and campuses.