I am standing center stage, looking out at the 1,100 seat Merchant Hall which towers nearly five stories to its hammered copper ceiling arches, in a perfect fusion of classic and modern architecture. It is a very exciting place to be. The hall's desirable acoustic character is evident and could only lovingly support the artistic prowess of those who take to its stage here each season.

The Hylton Performing Arts Center, which opened May of 2010, is only 30 minutes from Middleburg, located on the George Mason University Science and Technology Campus, at 10900 University Boulevard in Manassas. Just off the Prince William Parkway, this state of the art 85,000 square foot venue is one which features an artistic blend of national and international live performance, family entertainment and visual arts via its Merchant Hall, the Gregory Family Theater, the Didlake Grand Foyer and the Buchanan Partners Art Gallery.

In this special place, center stage, where stars do what they do, I'm surrounded by the many seats of would be performance enthusiasts. My guide, Jennifer Decker, a Lyric Soprano and George Mason University Graduate-Master of Music in Vocal Performance, has performed in this very spot. Her description of the acoustical enjoyment brings excitement to her eyes. One can only imagine and even from an audience standpoint, I am told that no seat is further than 90 feet from the stage. I can safely say, there just isn't a bad seat in the house.

Adding to the delight, Hylton's upcoming performances could not be more artistically diverse. Music, theater, ballet, celebration, dance, are all part of the great talent set to hit its stage. The Midtown Men opens the season September 19th, followed by the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China, Compañía Flamenca-José Porcel, Bollywood Masala Orchestra, the Moscow Festival Ballet, Lee Greenwood, and so much more. There's even the comedy of Frank Ferrante and his show "An Evening with Groucho."

The Hylton Center also features the Hylton Family Series, with shows that young theater goers will love like Peter Rabbit Tales, Clifford The Big Red Dog, Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy: The Musical and even master ventriloquist Kevin Johnson.

The venue also offers almost unlimited rental possibilities, with its 240 seat Gregory Family Theater alone, being one of complete customization. You can subscribe for prime seats, savings and personal service or become a Friend of Hylton Performing Arts Center. For more information visit HyltonCenter.org or call 703-993-7700.