Raclin Murphy Encore Center Steel Signing Ceremony

Celebrating a Milestone at the Raclin Murphy Encore Center

Mar 14, 2025 | Institutional, News | 0 comments

On Thursday, March 6, Larson-Danielson took part in the beam signing and steel topping ceremony for the Raclin Murphy Encore Center. Larson-Danielson is the general contractor for the 20,000 square foot addition to the Morris Performing Arts Center.

The event not only marked the placement of the final steel beam but also symbolized the progress and dedication poured into the Encore Center. Attendees had the unique opportunity to leave their mark by signing the beam, which was prominently displayed for this occasion.

The ceremony featured heartfelt remarks from several local and state representatives, highlighting the collaboration and effort behind the project. The excitement peaked as skilled members of Ironworkers Local 292, employed by Crane Industrial Service Company (CISCO), set the beam into place while the excited guests watched.

The signed beam at the Raclin Murphy Encore Center

The L-D team listens as local representatives speak during the event

Enhancing Accessibility and Arts Equity

For the past century, the Morris has been South Bend’s premier concert hall. The venue has hosted a diverse array of performances, from festive holiday shows and gripping dramatic productions to laugh-out-loud comedy tours. Cherished by the South Bend community, the Morris stands as a cultural icon.

The addition of the Encore Center promises to enhance this beloved venue with exciting new features. Attendees can look forward to a bar, lounge, event space, and expanded pre-function areas.

New restrooms and improved accessibility are also on the horizon, along with dedicated spaces for equity in the arts programs. The expansion will also provide more lobby space and a larger concessions area, elevating the overall visitor experience.

The construction of the Encore Center represents an exciting opportunity to celebrate South Bend’s vibrant culture. South Bend Venues Parks & Arts, the organization responsible for managing the Morris, envisions the expansion as a catalyst for inclusivity and enriched experiences. By fostering togetherness, collaboration, and creativity, the Encore Center will bring new programming and events that unite the community in celebration of the arts.

Honoring Progress and Community Support

The Encore Center expansion was made possible through the generosity of those dedicated to nurturing South Bend’s vibrant art scene. Support came from various sources, including a significant $15.2 million allocation from the City of South Bend and donations from over 240 private individuals.

The project broke ground in September 2024 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Following its completion, the Morris 100 project will move into its third and final phase with construction of an attached parking garage expected to begin in 2026.

In addition to our tole as the general contractor for the Encore Center addition, we also played a key role in the first phase of Morris Performing Arts Center renovation.

We previously served as the contractor for the general trades scope of work which included removal and replacement of the 100-year-old concrete floor. We were also responsible for the new doors into the ADA and VIP loges seating area, new floor paint of the balcony seating area, new cable trough for theater cabling, new return air grilles in the in-floor duct banks, and connecting lighting to the new seats.

We are proud of our long-standing tradition of preserving and improving historically significant facilities, like the Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend, and the Civic Auditorium in La Porte. Our passion for these iconic landmarks reflects our dedication to community heritage and cultural vitality. It’s an honor to be part of projects that celebrate the past while setting the stage for future generations to enjoy the arts.