The University of Illinois Springfield Performing Arts
Center is taking an intermission – and we’re preparing for something truly
transformative.
The Public Affairs Center building at UIS is undergoing a
major plumbing replacement project that will temporarily close the UIS Studio
Theatre and Sangamon Auditorium. While this may be disappointing news for the
patrons who look forward to our events, it also marks the beginning of an
exciting new chapter. Because, let’s face it, after more than 40 years,
Sangamon Auditorium is ready for its “second act.”
Since opening in 1981, Sangamon Auditorium has welcomed more
than 2 million patrons and played host to an incredible variety of artists – from
Broadway national tours and world-renowned musicians to comedians, speakers and
community celebrations. Generations of central Illinoisans have memories tied
to this space: a first show, a standing ovation, a night out that turned into a
family tradition. The bones of the building have served us well, but the time
has come to give the auditorium the update it deserves.
While the plumbing project is essential for the integrity
and functionality of the PAC as a whole, we are taking this temporary closure
to make strategic upgrades within the auditorium itself. Think of it as an
encore, but with better seats and brighter lights.
Through our 2nd Act campaign, we are raising funds to
reimagine and refresh Sangamon Auditorium with several key improvements:
• New, more comfortable seating: The current seats have
supported thousands of performances – and millions of audience members – but
they’re showing their age. The new seats will enhance comfort while also
improving accessibility and sightlines throughout the auditorium. We are also
working with local architects to explore the feasibility of adding new aisles
on the main floor.
• Upgraded interior surfaces: From flooring to fresh paint,
the overall look and feel of the space will be modernized while still
preserving the character and acoustic integrity of the auditorium.
• Improved theatrical equipment: Updated backstage
technology will allow us to present shows more efficiently and attract a wider
range of productions.
Together, these upgrades will ensure that Sangamon
Auditorium remains a state-of-the-art performing arts venue for decades to
come. But we cannot do it without you.
The 2nd Act campaign has already raised more than $420,000
toward our $1.25 million goal. Thanks to early support from donors and friends
of the UIS Performing Arts Center, we’ve reached our first fundraising
milestone, but we still have a long way to go.
This is where our community steps into the spotlight.
Whether you’re a longtime subscriber, an occasional
concertgoer or someone who remembers attending school field trips to see live
theatre on our stage, we’re asking you to consider making a gift. Your
donation, no matter the size, helps us continue bringing the best in arts and
entertainment to central Illinois, while also supporting our education
programs, community partnerships and behind-the-scenes operations that make the
magic happen.
More than just a face-lift, the 2nd Act campaign is an
investment in the future of live performance in our region. It’s about
preserving a cultural cornerstone while ensuring we can adapt to the needs and
expectations of modern audiences. And it’s about honoring the history of a
venue that has meant so much to so many – while building momentum for what’s
still to come.
The UIS Performing Arts Center will reopen in the fall 2026,
just in time for the 2026-27 season to begin. While the final schedule is still
under wraps, rest assured: We’re planning a thrilling lineup that celebrates
the return of live entertainment in a newly refreshed space.
Until then, we hope you’ll be part of this exciting
transformation. Make your mark on the future of Sangamon Auditorium. Help us
raise the curtain on our second act.
You can learn more and make your donation by visiting
UISpac.com/2nd-act-campaign.
Thank you for being part of our story – and for helping us
continue to share the joy of live performance with our community. We’ll see you
soon in a refreshed Sangamon Auditorium!
Bryan Rives is the director of the University of Illinois
Springfield Performing Arts Center.