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John Legend Image Credit: AP

Oscar- and Grammy-winning artist John Legend opened an Ohio theatre named in his honour.

The Springfield News-Sun reports Legend spoke on Sunday at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the recently renovated theatre. He also performed several songs in the updated performance space.

Legend, a Springfield native, donated $500,000 (Dh1.8 million) for the project.

At Sunday’s ceremony, the singer recalled memories of growing up and performing in the city. He said he wants to extend opportunities to young people living there.

The 680-seat John Legend Theatre is housed at the Springfield Centre of Innovation: The Dome.

Students from multiple districts will have the chance to use the theatre and learn how to run a production.

The Dome was once a high school and is now home to several education programmes.