A new performing arts venue is coming to Arts District Liberty Station in spring 2025: “The Joan,” whose namesake is local philanthropist Joan Jacobs.

The $43.5 million, 32,000-sqft Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center recently broke ground at the landmark’s Naval Building 178 at Truxtun and Roosevelt roads.

It's a collaboration between the NTC Foundation and Cygnet Theatre — set to become the Cygnet’s permanent home.

The venue's groundbreaking ceremony took place on Jan. 23, 2024. | Photo via Karli Cadel Photography

It’ll feature this razzle dazzle:

Two theater spaces — the 289-seat, basement-level Proscenium Theatre and the 150-seat Flexible Studio, plus rehearsal and orchestra spaces.
An open-air lobby, two bars, three patios, parking, and an art gallery showcasing local artists.

The organizations said The Joan will be designed to “foster live performance and elevate the arts in San Diego” with a goal to attract 50,000 theater-goers annually.

Project funding has reached 73% — or $31.6 million — and a community fundraising campaign aims to collect donations for the final stretch.