Tripp Performance Art Center

 There is nothing quite like walking into a theater empty, the lights out, no crowds, no sounds. So we leave on the "ghost light", a single light in the center of the stage to ward away the spooky imagination we think up. 

This pandemic has left our performing arts center empty for now but LBCC has taken this opportunity to remodel Takena Hall. A time that will not interrupt the show, and the show will go on... soon. 

As of right now the theater is closed to outside (not LBCC rentals) due to COVID-19 and closed until July 2022 due to re-model of the adjoining Takena Hall, according to Events Manager Michael Winder. Winder is in charge of all things Russell Tripp Performing Arts Center, booking, scheduling, front of house, and marketing. Winder said what makes LBCC's theater stand out is "it is accessible, available, ample parking, and the space" it provides.

The theater stage deck was replaced 3 years ago and the house lights have been upgraded to brighter and more energy efficient LEDs. A fancy feature one may not notice is, the light switch to turn on the house lights are the house doors. Until recently Tripp Performing Arts Center was the largest space in Linn county with 450 seats. West Albany High School now has the largest and state of the art theater space in Linn county, thanks to grant funds according to Winder.

Once the doors are open again Winder expects his schedule to fill up with years past bookings such as, Legacy Ballet recitals, town hall events, and LBCC choir concerts.

"Always a great show at the Russell Tripp, had the opportunity to help run sound for The end of Spring Show for a local dance Academy. Great experience." Former soundboard operator Christofer Pawley

Fiona Sprague recalls going to the theater space as a field trip in second grade to see a performance. Bussing in hundreds of elementary age kids in the area is a tradition LBCC has had for nearly 27 years. 

"I walk down the stairs near the theater and can't hear rehearsals now, it's sad" Said Sprague. 

Russell Tripp was born in Albany, Oregon on February 9, 1927. He went on to get his bachelors at Willamette University and Masters at Stanford. His achievements include; American real estate company officer. Recipient Alumni citation, Willamette University, 1976. Mayor City of Albany, 1964—1970; Member of Albany Board Realtors (president 1957, Realtor of Year 1968), Oregon Community College Association 1977, Albany Tennis Club 1973. He was the mayor of Albany from 1964-1970. 

Russell Tripp - Local legend, mogul, donor and name sake.

Right: Re-dedication ceremony PC- blogger 

Bottom: Climbing the stairs to the Dali Llama's chambers PC his own Facebook

Hello Sabrina! As it concerns the PAC, the hall has a great sound and lighting system that is usable for many events. The hall also has significant fly space so that backdrops and such can come down easily. For music, the hall is equipped with a great acoustic shell and risers that allow musical performers to hear one another better on stage. It's a wonderful hall in the name of one of our most important community members Russell and Duffy Tripp. No music in the hall until maybe next fall due to the renovations happening in Takena Hall. I hope this helps!

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