For almost 10 years, the Shining Stars Guild supported the Texas Repertory Theatre’s programs with events such as an annual fundraising gala. Since the theater shuttered last year, the guild has sought a new way to support the performing arts in the area, such as with its partnership with Lone Star College-University Park. As part of the $485 million Lone Star College System bond packaged approved by voters in 2015, a new $23.7 million arts building will begin construction this year and open in 2018. LSC-UP President Shah Ardalan said the 40,000-square-foot arts building is projected to open in late 2018. Drama, music and fine arts classrooms will be housed in the building, along with an auditorium for live theater. However, while LSCS funds cover the construction of the arts building and academic programs, it will not cover programs for the public outside of its school curriculum. But Shining Stars Guild helps to provide public programs at the new venue. “It will be a very close partnership with the community,” Ardalan said. Shining Stars Guild board member and event chairwoman Diane Lipton said the guild’s work will support community programs such as a public theater program and summer camp for children. “We provide funding they wouldn’t receive otherwise and programs they wouldn’t have otherwise,” Lipton said. The theater will seat 300-400, and with an entrance that will face Hwy. 249 at Louetta Road across from Vintage Park, its location allows for proximity to a ubiquity of dining options before and after the shows, she said. Before the new arts building opens in late 2018 or early 2019, LSC-UP theater programs will be presented at its Black Box Theatre in Building 12. The Shining Stars Guild’s Tenth Annual Bash, “Jazz it Up,” will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 4 at Enchanted Cypress Ballroom, 12603 Louetta Road, Cypress. The night will feature Yvonne Washington and her R&B Band The Mix. Individual tickets are $150-$250, and tables of ten are $1,000-$5,000. VIPs and those who sign on as underwriters or table sponsors are also invited to attend 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, at Gleannloch Farms Arabian Horse Ranch. The event, "Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler,” is Mardi Gras-themed and will feature jazz and drinks. For more information on tickets to the events, contact [email protected] or 281-455-8203.