The Torrance Cultural Arts Center of Torrance, California, is acknowledged as the "crown jewel of the South Bay." The center has been a mecca for all sorts of events since its inauguration in 1991. The center serves as a unified campus for learning, pursuit of excellence, and collaboration. It presents a wide range of such artistic events as opera, ballet, concerts, and theatrical productions. Spread out in a series of lofty buildings linked by open spaces, the center has become a popular venue for bridal showers, wedding receptions, parties, and dinners. It has all the necessary support facilities, including meeting and banquet rooms, a visual and performing arts studio, a 502-seat theater, two spacious outdoor plazas, and a magnificent Japanese garden. One of the most popular spots in the center is the Community Meeting Hall, which boasts vaulted ceilings and a bright foyer for pre-dinner gatherings. Another interesting area is Torino Plaza, an inner courtyard with tented seating. The Ken Miller Recreation Center offers two event spaces with a shared kitchen. The center’s auditorium can comfortably accommodate a disk jockey or small band. The 502-seat James R. Armstrong Theater hosts all kinds of professional and community productions, as well as large-scale meetings, film screenings, and seminars. In addition, the George Nakano Theater is a flexible space for theatrical performances, business events, and social functions. Of special note is the Pine Wind Japanese Garden, featuring two fountains, a small stream, a pond, and a two-tier, redwood amphitheatre with a 60-seat capacity. It is a popular venue for weddings. A circular path of stepping stones, which leads through a landscape of dainty bonsai, maple trees and bamboo, adds to the garden's charm. In addition, the Torrance Art Museum at the center serves as a platform for the interpretation of visual arts by local artists.