The new 800-student performing and visual arts magnet school was designed as part of an effort to revitalize downtown Waterbury. Features include a 4-story atrium, academic classrooms, soundproof music rooms, a 100-seat recital hall, a black box theater, dance studio, a television studio with control room, and large outdoor amphitheater. The school is connected to the historic Palace Theater which was restored as part of the project.