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Welcome to Prairie Surf Studios, where modern innovation meets Oklahoma City history. Once a bustling sports venue and convention center, this iconic downtown landmark has undergone a dramatic transformation into a state-of-the-art film production facility. Whether you’re an industry insider looking to scout the Midwest for your next project or a curious local fascinated by the site’s evolution, this blog will provide a comprehensive overview of Prairie Surf Studios and its remarkable journey.
From its historical role as a multi-use arena to its rebirth as a creative hub, Prairie Surf Studios is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of adaptability and progress. Let’s dive in as we explore this fascinating facility’s past, present, and future.
A Storied History of Prairie Surf Studios
Prairie Surf Studios wouldn’t be what it is today without its rich history. Originally opened as the Myriad Convention Center in 1972, the facility was the cornerstone of Oklahoma City’s Pei Plan, an ambitious urban renewal project. Over the decades, it became a central hub for sports, concerts, and conferences, hosting thousands of events that brought the community together.
In the late 1990s, the facility underwent a massive $60 million renovation aimed at modernizing its amenities. It was renamed the Cox Convention Center in 2002 but lost many of its major events when the Ford Center (now the Paycom Center) opened nearby. However, its journey was far from over. In 2021, Prairie Surf Media leased the building, and the space underwent another transformation, this time into a cutting-edge film studio. With over 260,000 square feet dedicated to production space, Prairie Surf Studios now houses some of the largest clear-span soundstages in the Midwest.
Plans for its future include an eventual demolition to make way for a new multi-million-dollar arena, but for now, Prairie Surf Studios stands as a testament to the spirit of reinvention.
Why Oklahoma City is the Perfect Home for Prairie Surf Studios
Oklahoma City might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of major film production hubs, but the city has a lot to offer. Known for its growing economy, vibrant downtown, and welcoming community, Oklahoma City provides the perfect backdrop for Prairie Surf Studios.
For filmmakers, Oklahoma City offers numerous advantages, including its central location and affordable production costs. The city is well-connected by highways, railways, and airports, making it accessible from both coasts. In addition, the thriving downtown area – featuring attractions like the Myriad Botanical Gardens, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and an array of dining and lodging options – creates a convenient environment for production crews.
In 2022, Oklahoma passed a tax rebate program attracting filmmakers and production companies to the state, further cementing Oklahoma City as a burgeoning destination for filmmakers.
A Look at Teams and Events That Called It Home
Before its current life as a film studio, the facility had a rich tradition as a home for sports teams and events. It was best known for hosting local sports teams, including:
- Oklahoma City Blazers: The Blazers enjoyed two separate stints at the arena, serving as one of the city’s premier hockey teams from 1973–77 and 1992–2002.
- Oklahoma City Barons: As an AHL team, the Barons brought thrilling hockey action to the city from 2010–15.
- Oklahoma City Blue: An NBA G League team, the Blue played their home games at the venue from 2014–2019.
The arena was also a favorite site for major events, including NCAA basketball tournaments, rodeos, and indoor track-and-field championships. Its ability to host diverse events made it an integral part of Oklahoma City’s history.
Prairie Surf Studios Today: Hub for Midwest Film Production
The shift from a sports arena to a production studio wasn’t an easy one, but Prairie Surf Media saw the potential. Today, the facility features five massive soundstages, accommodating everything from blockbuster films to commercials and TV shows. Its high ceilings and clear spans ensure that the space is flexible enough for any production needs.
Additionally, Prairie Surf Studios has created new employment opportunities in Oklahoma City, attracting talent and propelling the local creative economy forward. Many major productions have already leveraged the facility, putting Prairie Surf Studios on the map as a go-to spot for filmmakers in the region.
The facility’s unique ability to offer scalable production space, competitive rates, and logistical convenience makes it a standout option for those seeking a reliable location for large-scale projects.
Future of Prairie Surf Studios: What Lies Ahead?
The future of Prairie Surf Studios is both exciting and uncertain. While the facility is currently thriving as a production studio, the City of Oklahoma City has announced plans to repurpose the site. By 2025, the building is slated for demolition to make way for a new arena that will serve as the home court for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Although this marks the end of an era for Prairie Surf Studios, it also represents an opportunity. Oklahoma City officials and Prairie Surf Media are working together to ensure the transition is a smooth one, with plans to relocate production efforts to other sites in the area, keeping the burgeoning film industry alive and well in Oklahoma.
Stay tuned for more updates as these plans unfold. The city’s commitment to innovating and evolving suggests the future holds even bigger things on the horizon.
Visiting Prairie Surf Studios and Its Surroundings
If you find yourself in Oklahoma City, a trip to the area around Prairie Surf Studios is a must. Although the building itself is restricted to production crews, the surrounding downtown area provides plenty to see and do.
Here are a few tips for maximizing your visit:
- Use Public Transit: The OKC Streetcar makes it easy to navigate downtown, with stops near Prairie Surf Studios and other attractions.
- Explore Local Landmarks: Don’t miss the Myriad Botanical Gardens and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, both just a short walk away.
- Dine and Stay Nearby: The area features a variety of dining options as well as adjacent hotels like the Renaissance and Sheraton.
Final Thoughts: A Symbol of Creativity and Progress
Prairie Surf Studios is an unparalleled example of Oklahoma City’s resilience and ability to innovate. From its days as a convention center to its current role as a film production hub, this iconic facility continues to shape the city’s future. Whether you’re a filmmaker looking for state-of-the-art soundstages or a history buff curious about urban redevelopment, Prairie Surf Studios has a story worth exploring.
As Oklahoma City looks to the future, Prairie Surf Studios remains a testament to the city’s ability to adapt and thrive. If you’re in the area, take a stroll through the rich history of downtown Oklahoma City, and witness firsthand how Prairie Surf Studios has become a centerpiece of the city’s cultural and economic growth.
Call-to-Action: Are you a filmmaker or production company considering Prairie Surf Studios for your next project? Contact Prairie Surf Media today or explore their official website for more information. Step into the heart of Midwest filmmaking and discover how this versatile facility can bring your creative vision to life.
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