Skip to main content Skip to main navigation Skip to footer content

MCC Academic Arts Center

The Richard & Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center!

In 2018, we renovated the Academic Arts Center (AAC), a multi-purpose facility in the heart of Lowell for nearly 150 years.

The AAC houses our performing arts programs, including theater, dance and music. The centerpiece of the historic, totally renovated building is a proscenium theater showcasing theatrical programs and performances.

The AAC features:
  • 190-seat Proscenium Theatre
  • 103-seat Recital Hall
  • 900-square-foot Dance Studio
  • Music practice room
  • Classrooms

All these spaces serve our students and faculty, as well as our community partners, including:

  • The public school system
  • National Park Service
  • Other public and private organizations

Built in 1876, the building served as the Central Street Train Depot for the city of Lowell until 1895, when a new station was constructed nearby. The depot consisted of a two-story, brick head-house with a clock tower at the south end of the facade.

Originally, the building was home to offices and other depot uses. 

Historic photographs indicate that various companies leased space there, such as:

  • Express companies
  • Printing offices
  • A tailor shop
  • The Western Union telegraph company 
  • A paint supply store

Over the years, this landmark housed a number of businesses, including a theater lobby from 1911 until the 1960s. 

Other occupants of the building included:

  • Music teachers
  • Barbers
  • Florists
  • Real-estate agents

In the 1970s, the building served as Paul Tsongas’ congressional campaign office.

In 1989, it was saved from demolition by the Lowell Historic Preservation Commission. The exterior of the building was renovated by Lowell National Historical Park, which transferred ownership to MCC in 2008. Renovations began in 2015 and the AAC opened in 2018.

The Academic Arts Center is host to a variety of College events including:

MCC is also proud to host a variety community events including:

Contact Us!

John Bachelder
Academic Arts Center Manager
 BachelderJ@middlesex.edu
 

 

 

Next Steps