The next stop on our tour was the amphitheater. Simple in design and scope, it looked like it got its basic design from the ancient Greeks and Romans. But why do you suppose that guy was running in the back? I thought about removing him with Photoshop but then where would we find the mystery of this place?

By the way, notice the struts projecting out from the building at the back of the amphitheater. They suggest that at one point they planned to construct a cover over the seating area. Good idea — hope they complete it some day.

Another shot showing the stage from the audience's perspective. The cloth hanging down from the rigging is a parachute which could be used for shade or as the stage curtain.

On the side of the stage hung a beautiful bell whose purpose was not stated. Perhaps this calls the audience to order at the beginning of a production. Your speculation is as good as mine.

One of the people on our tour took to the stage to strike a pose for her husband to photograph. Cute.

Behind the stage is a rehearsal room. It was holding cleaning supplies temporarily as a couple workers cleaned adjoining rooms while we were touring.

Back outside I was intrigued by these decorative panels. I'm not at all sure what they represent but I bet the students who made them put a lot of thought into them.

Because I was taking various photos, I was getting behind our tiny tour group so I did not catch the full explanation of this model. However, I believe it was the concept for an airport terminal.

And above the airport model hung what I believe was a decorative medallion to be used in that airport terminal. Although it made me think of an aerial shot of a mystical airport terminal. Take your pick.

At the far end of the property, we looked over the swimming pool and jacuzzi built by students. They would certainly be welcome in this high desert area.

The pond (partially covered with algae) beyond the pool is their sewage retention basin. I mention it only because it is the major factor limiting the number of residents allowed at Arcosanti. Plans have been made and are under review to create a real sewage system but it will probably cost big bucks to build. However, if Arcosanti is ever to fulfill Paolo Soleri's vision, it will have to be done.

And here we arrive at the end of the formal tour — the kiln, which is used to fire the ceramic bells that we saw being created earlier in the tour. That is one heavy-duty kiln!

I was intrigued by the no-smoking sticker to the right of the door. My guess is that the kiln must use propane (or a similar gas) and a tiny leak might create a dangerous situation when the kiln is operating.