The History of the Oxford Performing Arts Center
Located at 100 Choccolocco Street in the heart of downtown Oxford, the Oxford Performing Arts Center stands as one of East Alabama’s most significant cultural landmarks. The building has served this community for more than a century — first as a school, then as the seat of city government, and now as a regional home for the performing arts.
From Schoolhouse to Civic Center
In 1921, Oxford citizens approved a bold plan to build a new elementary school for their growing community. Funded through the sale of local “Loyal Loan” school bonds, the project demonstrated the town’s commitment to education and civic progress. The new Oxford Elementary School opened that spring, welcoming students in grades one through seven into a modern, steam-heated facility that cost $40,000 to construct — a significant investment for its time.
The building served Oxford’s children for more than thirty years before the school system relocated to newer facilities in 1952. Rather than abandon the property, the City of Oxford repurposed it to meet other community needs. In 1953, the structure became Oxford City Hall, housing the mayor’s office, city departments, and the police station. For more than five decades, it remained the center of civic life until the city’s administrative and law enforcement offices moved to new facilities in the early 2000s.
A New Role for a Historic Space
By the late 2000s, city leaders began exploring ways to preserve the historic building while giving it a renewed purpose. The City of Oxford worked with local partners to develop plans for a performing arts center that would serve the region as both a cultural and educational venue.
In 2011, the City Council approved a massive renovation and expansion project designed by the Montgomery architectural firm Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood. The design preserved the original brick façade, pine floors, and columns while extending the structure toward Snow Street to include a state-of-the-art 1,200-seat theater. The result was a seamless blend of historic architecture and modern performance technology.
A New Era for the Arts
The Oxford Performing Arts Center opened its doors in May 2013 with a concert by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Since then, OPAC has become one of Alabama’s most active and respected performing arts venues, presenting a wide range of programming — from Broadway tours and symphony concerts to comedy, country, jazz, and educational performances.
Beyond its stage, OPAC continues to honor its educational roots through partnerships with Oxford City Schools, master classes, community workshops, and the Rubato International Piano Competition. It serves as both a local gathering place and a regional destination, attracting audiences from across Alabama and neighboring states.
Looking Forward
Today, the Oxford Performing Arts Center stands as a symbol of the city’s vision and resilience. What began as a schoolhouse built through community effort has evolved into a dynamic cultural institution that enriches the lives of thousands each year. Its history is one of continuous adaptation — proof that Oxford’s commitment to education, creativity, and community never goes out of style.
