A theater for the performing arts represents the culmination of a search between client and architect for the convergence of the theaters of landscape and performance. The client, a longtime resident of New Mexico and patron of the arts, desired a venue which would draw top musical and dramatic performers to the summer vacation destination of Ruidoso.

Preliminary discussions between the client and architect led to the inspiration behind the building's form, an analogous white mountain to the Sierra Blanca Peak on the western horizon, situated on a windswept mesa between Ruidoso and Alto, New Mexico. The client wanted a departure from typical southwestern vernacular; the architect responded by creating a wedge-like monolithic piece breaking through the earth's crust., contrasted by a crystalline glass lobby on the north flank, serving as an awe-inspiring processional space before the auditorium. At 52,000 square feet for the entire structure, with seating for 514, the theater employs wrap-around balconies to preserve teh space's intimacy, while pulling the audience closer to the stage. Adjustable sound-absorbing curtains can be configured to meet the acoustical needs of individual performers, highlighting the nuances of sound which make the performance pleasurable for spectator and artist alike. Spacious dressing rooms surround a private courtyard and the green room provides a warm-up/reception area for actors and musicians.

The client and theater employees were present as critical design reviews discussing interior and furnishings, in addition to bi-weekly meetings between the client and architect reviewing design intention and building refinement. The process included generating detailed computer models and constructing large, scale models in the lobby, the theater club and the auditorium space. Presentation models were specifically constructed to offer the client and community an understanding of how their programmatic requirements would be integrated into the facility.