It was a night to be proud for the hundreds who attended Friday’s VIP reception and dedication of the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience in Meridian.

“Tonight we’re opening a center that all the people in Mississippi and around the world can come to visit,” Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant said. “Mississippi can do remarkable things … Meridian, Mississippi, Lauderdale County, this is a night to be proud.”

For those who have worked tirelessly for more than a decade on the $50 million museum, there was pride in the completion of a longtime endeavor presented with numerous challenges.

Their unshakable commitment to the project was being rewarded.

“This is one of the most extraordinary journeys and interactive state-of-the-art journeys that is emerging into our beloved Mississippi, and our people and our contributions to the arts,” award-winning actress and Meridian native Sela Ward said. Ward was among those who first committed to the project.

And for many who entered The Max’s doors for the first time Friday, the evening presented a moment of pride not only in their state, but also their home — Meridian.

“This is what Meridian is about — progress,” said Marjorie Alexander as she looked around in awe of the two-story facility featuring a modern silhouette and large glass windows set in the historical backdrop of downtown Meridian.

“I’m very impressed with how it turned out and very proud to be here to see this happen here, in the place that I live,” Alexander said.

Prior to the dedication ceremony, attendees walked throughout the 60,000 square-foot facility that features a two-story 360-degree Hall of Fame rotunda with a spectacular multimedia display, two art studios, numerous indoor/outdoor spaces designed for schools, civic clubs, professionals and families to host special programs and events.

The center also features an open rooftop terrace, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and is part of the Walk of Fame starting from the MSU Riley Center to the entrance of The Max.

The state-of-the-art facility’s opening attracted officials, locally as well as from around the state.

“This is absolutely amazing,” Congressman Gregg Harper said. “When you look at all of the people involved in this over the years, it is truly a team effort. It is a beautiful facility, a showstopper for Mississippi — not just, Meridian, this is a Mississippi jewel and we’re excited to be here for its opening.

The Max’s appeal also extended to residents from throughout the state.

“This is fabulous, I can’t wait to walk around and see it all,” said Angelyn Cannada of Jackson, who attended the opening with her husband Barry. “This is awesome for Meridian — or any city in Mississippi — to have a facility like this.”

University of Southern Mississippi President Rodney Temple took the opportunity to not only support the arts in Mississippi but also students from the Meridian area.

“We see the arts as a sort of Mississippi community, not a community-specific to just one area,” Temple said. “The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited in all four areas of the arts, so it only makes sense to celebrate the establishment of a facility that highlights that.”

The festive evening included music by the Mississippi Mass Choir and Meridian Symphony, as well as music and dancing to the band Compozitionz.