When the curtains rise in November of 2008, the outlook from the stage will be much different than what you see today.

Scaffolding, drills and saws consume the seating area in the $40 million Durham Performing Art Center.

General Manager Bob Klaus can already envision what the largest performing arts center in the Carolinas will look like.

"Our part of the operation really focuses on the big events; the over 100 events that will be in the new theatre from Broadway to concerts to comedy. And we think the first of December we're going to have a wonderful new home for those live events," Klaus said.

Construction began last year, but the city has already announced a Broadway Series on the list of performances, including Legally Blonde and RENT. NBC's hit show "Last Comic Standing" will also make a stop in the Bull City along its tour.

"I think we really just compete against ourselves to be the best and with so many wonderful shows and beautiful new theatre to call home, I think it's the regional audiences that really win," Klaus said.

For more information on upcoming shows, concerts and performances, click here.