We can now confirm that the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is "100 percent occupiable."
According to Sean DeMartino, president of Balfour Beatty Construction, only "touch-ups" remain. That means the Walt Disney Theater, the DeVos Family Room, Donors Lounge - everything - only require cosmetic nips n' tucks.
We obtained two exclusive photos taken from the inside of the 2,700 seat Walt Disney Theater. The seats are navy, and appear to have their row and number engraved. DeMartino says completion is 1.5 weeks away.
The Dr. Phillips Center has been very careful not to leak pictures snapped from inside the new venue. They want the grand premiere week to be just that - the big reveal. So we're thrilled to be able and share these two shots.
As far as the intimate Alexis and Jim Pugh theater, the stage is ready to go, he says. The railing and lighting - everything's installed and functioning.
Outside is the Seneff Arts Plaza. Sod has been laid down, the lights are working, and the palm trees have been planted. But you'll notice no sod on the north side, closest to the Grand Bohemian (see gallery above). That's where DeMartino said Sheryl Crow's stage is going to be on Nov. 8 during grand premiere. He says there's also going to be a beer garden and other event structures. Since they are anticipating big crowds, crews will just sod it afterward.
DeMartino said workers are on call from here forward. He also confirmed that the Dr. Phillips Center received the TCO - or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy. That's a big deal, meaning all that's left are minor cosmetic tweaks.