Since it opened in 1974, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo’s Performing Arts Center has hosted a wide variety of events, including musicals and plays led by student casts and crews, traveling performances, local Hawaiian language productions and 51 annual International Nights featuring student performances.
But after 52 years, the 41,000-square-foot facility needs a facelift. In January, it will close for its first major renovation — a $6 million update to the public spaces.
The transformation into a more modern space will focus on cosmetic and functional upgrades to the exterior, lobby, restrooms, inner auditorium and box office — “things that enhance a patron’s experience,” said Lee Barnette-Dombroski, manager of the Performing Arts Center…