Sangamon Auditorium to reopen in October with major upgrades

After more than a year without performances, there’s finally a date to circle on the calendar: Sangamon Auditorium is set to reopen this October.

The UIS Performing Arts Center has been closed since June 2025 to make way for a major plumbing replacement throughout the building. It’s not the most glamorous upgrade, but it was essential. Every water and wastewater pipe serving restrooms, sinks, fountains and dressing room showers has been replaced as part of a state-funded project. With most of that work now complete, the finish line is in sight.

And while new pipes may not draw a crowd, what’s happening alongside that work certainly will.

During the closure, the auditorium itself has been undergoing a significant refresh. If you’ve attended a show here before, you may remember the narrow seats and well-worn red carpet. Both are now gone. In their place are more comfortable seating, updated lighting and a cleaner, more modern look throughout the hall.

This month, new seats upholstered in rich red fabric are being installed. Manufactured in Michigan, they offer, on average, more personal space, better lumbar support and additional padding – small changes that should make a noticeable difference. Each seat also includes a cup holder, a simple but welcome addition for many patrons.

The upgrades are especially noticeable in the Gold Circle section, the first three rows closest to the stage. These premium seats are wider, with a slight rocking motion designed for comfort. They’re arranged in pairs with extra space between them and include armrests that can be raised for flexibility. It’s a more relaxed, spacious experience for those who want to be as close as possible to the performance.

Elsewhere in the auditorium, improvements focus on ease and accessibility. Aisle lighting has been enhanced, and additional path lighting is being added in the mezzanine and balcony. Row letters and seat numbers are larger and easier to read, making it simpler to find your place, even after the lights dim.

Accessibility has also been expanded. There are now more wheelchair-accessible seating options, including new center locations on the main floor and additional spaces in the mezzanine. Each wheelchair location is paired with a standard theater seat for companions. For patrons who need additional room, select seats with flip-up armrests are available, along with armless seating options designed for comfort and flexibility. The ticket office can assist with those arrangements.

One of the most noticeable changes may be the addition of two new aisles running from the stage to the back of the main floor. In the past, some rows stretched up to 60 seats across. Now, with the new layout, it’s much easier to reach your seat, and there are more aisle seats available as a result. In fact, 72 new aisle seats have been added, offering both convenience and improved access during intermission.

A new cross aisle has also been introduced midway through the main floor, making it easier to move from one side of the auditorium to the other without navigating long rows.

Once the seating installation wraps up in mid-May, new carpeting will follow. The updated design features neutral tones –  grays and blacks  – that brighten the space while helping conceal wear over time. The lighter color palette also improves visibility for safer movement during performances.

This work has been supported in large part by the community. Through the 2nd Act Fundraising Campaign, more than $840,000 has been raised toward a $1.25 million goal. Among the contributors, the UIS Performing Arts Center Volunteer Association stands out, with members collectively giving $50,000 in support of the project.

There’s still work to be done to reach the campaign goal, but the progress so far reflects a strong commitment to keeping the arts vibrant in central Illinois.

Meanwhile, attention is turning back to the stage. Show announcements are already underway, with the highly anticipated Broadway Series expected to be revealed in mid- to late June. Each announcement brings the reopening a little closer and builds anticipation for a return to live performance.

For those who have supported the project, the renovated auditorium will reflect that investment. For those considering it, there’s still an opportunity to be part of what comes next.

More information about upcoming events and the 2nd Act Campaign can be found at UISpac.com.

Bryan Rives is the director of the University of Illinois Springfield Performing Arts Center.