Christopher Paragoni, representing Azalea City Center for the Arts, told the Mobile City Council the organization is under contract to buy the former Calagas Building on Springdale Boulevard and proposed converting it into a 255-seat performing arts theater to fill a gap left by the demolition of the Mobile Civic Center theater. "At 255 seats, it's gonna be appropriate for all kinds of performing groups from dance studios to improv groups," Paragoni said.

Paragoni said the project would include an accessible stage, modern lighting and sound, eight dressing rooms, a green room and a scene shop, and that foundations such as the Ben May Foundation have pledged support. He asked the city for a funding commitment that "doesn't have to look like a big lump sum" and could be payable over three years.

Council members discussed whether space in the planned new arena could temporarily meet some performing-arts needs but noted differences in acoustics and suitability. Councilman Reynolds suggested reviewing arena plans and the applicant said the arena ballroom would not be comparable to a purpose-built theater. Councilmembers encouraged Paragoni to share detailed partnership proposals with the executive branch and the council for consideration.

No formal funding vote was taken at the meeting; council members thanked Azalea City Center for the presentation and asked staff to accept follow-up materials describing potential city support.