Integrative & Innovative Research

General Contractor: Crossland Construction

Primary architect: Polk Stanley Wilcox

Square Feet:28,608

At Opera in the Ozarks, TCM Enterprises played a key role in the creation of a state-of-the-art training and performance facility. With a transformative $34 million grant from the Walton Family Foundation, the Polk Stanley Wilcox-designed theater and training space includes a 300-seat theater, rehearsal hall, expanded production shops, practice rooms, and faculty housing. This marks a new chapter for the venue, which has long been a hub for art and creativity in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Working closely with the general contractor, Crossland Construction, TCM Enterprises was entrusted with critical responsibilities to help bring the design to life. TCM expertly installed both exterior and interior metal framing, providing a sturdy foundation for the building. The team also installed glass-mat sheathing for enhanced durability and weather resistance, while interior spaces were finished with drywall designed to optimize acoustics, complemented by reglet reveals for clean, seamless lines. TCM’s acoustic enhancements went beyond standard construction, with the installation of acoustic panel duct liners, fabric-wrapped panels on walls and ceilings, and a sound-absorbing floor system. A linear baffle ceiling added both aesthetic appeal and acoustic performance, elevating the venue’s functionality and appearance. The project presented several challenges, including site limitations, difficult terrain, and scheduling delays. However, Ricardo Castillo, TCM’s project lead, skillfully navigated these obstacles by providing innovative solutions and maintaining close collaboration with the design and construction teams. The use of temporary access platforms, elevated work platforms, and efficient coordination kept the project moving forward despite the challenges.
Thanks in part to TCM’s expertise and commitment to excellence, Opera in the Ozarks not only enhanced a cultural landmark but also set the stage—both figuratively and literally—for generations of aspiring artists to hone their craft in a world-class facility.