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!
This article appears in Route 66.
