Lyons Middle/Senior High students got their first chance Monday to practice in the school’s new auditorium as they prepare for holiday concerts.

Kasey Knapp, a senior who first performed on the school’s original stage in the cafeteria in fifth grade, said her initial reaction to the new space was “wow.” She’s in the school’s band, choir and drama programs and will play the lead in the spring musical.

“I just got in there and jumped up and down,” she said. “I’ve been hearing about it since sixth grade. It’s way better than I ever imagined it would be. Performing on that stage, especially my senior year performances, is going to be so much fun.”

Principal Andrea Smith said school leaders wanted an auditorium that met not just the student’s needs, but also those of the community. The new building will be the town’s only large auditorium space.