Theater Supporters Sign Roof Beam as ‘The Joan’ Takes Shape in Liberty Station

As construction of the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center progresses in Liberty Station, supporters gathered Friday to add their signatures to a roof beam.

“This is a very significant day for us ,” said Lisa C. Johnson, president and CEO of the NTC Foundation, which manages Liberty Station, as dozens of theater donors joined her in signing the gray steel beam.

The foundation and Cygnet Theatre are partnering to transform historic Building 178 in the former naval training center into a world-class performing arts venue — and a permanent home for Cygnet.

The $43.5 million center will have a 289-seat theater, 150-seat studio, two bars, three patios and support facilities including dressing rooms, a costume shop and orchestra space. Extensive soundproofing will minimize jetliner noise from the nearby airport.

The arts center, which is affectionately known as “The Joan,” is expected to open in the summer of 2025.

Its namesake died in May after a long battle with cardiac amyloidosis, but was on hand for the groundbreaking in January.

“We know that Joan is here in spirit,” said Johnson.