A major step forward in the Eau Claire Theater community was taken last night when the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre unveiled its new performance space, The Oxford, with a VIP open house and encore performance of “Rent.” This is particularly exciting because the space seats 275 people and fills part of the need for a mid-sized theatre space in Eau Claire. With places like the State Theatre seating 1,100 and the Grand Little Theatre holding an audience of 160, the room is well suited for mid-level local shows. All the chairs are removable, which makes the auditorium great not only for theater but for meetings, concerts, receptions and other events. The new space attaches to the existing 3-story structure on Oxford Avenue ECCT moved into in September of 2007, where they have rehearsal facilities, construction workshops, meeting space, a costume shop, and tons of storage for costumes, props, and scenery. The whole place is really quite outstanding, and the work they’ve put in is amazing. To celebrate the opening, there are a number of performances and events happening this weekend including more encore performances of Rent, a performance by The Chippewa Valley Youth Choir, and a show with five local bands on Sunday.