UNCSA’s Stevens Center will close on Nov. 15 for renovations that will modernize the theater for students and patrons while making necessary repairs. Built in 1929 as a silent movie theater, the Stevens Center was last renovated 40 years ago — and the balcony has been closed since August 2021 because delayed roof repairs caused some surfaces to deteriorate.
Phase one
Work on phase one of renovations is expected to take two years. A major part of construction will focus on redesigning the lobby for a better patron experience. That includes:
- Renovating restrooms
- Updating concession spaces
- Increasing accessibility + amenities
Critical upgrades will also be made to the exterior of the building. Repairs will be made to the facility’s terra-cotta façade, brick, and windows, and crews will ensure the theater is watertight. The roof will also be replaced. Back-of-house spaces like dressing rooms and the green room will be renovated. The NC budget approved in November 2021 allocated $29.8 million for this phase of renovations.
Phase two
This phase will focus on improvements to the interior of the theater — enhancing the audience’s experience with upgrades to the stage, technology, and its 1,380 seats. The balcony will also be reconfigured to improve sightlines. Funding totaling $51 million was included in the 2023-2024 state budget for phase two of the project.
Works in progress
The box office has moved to Watson Hall (1533 S. Main St.) on the UNCSA campus. Students will present performances of “The Nutcracker” at the Steven Tanger Center for Performing Arts in Greensboro from Dec. 7 through Dec. 10. Before the Stevens Center closes, it will host two final performances:
- World Class Brass All-Stars on Friday, Nov. 3
- UNCSA Symphony Orchestra conducted by alumnus Robert Franz on Friday, Nov. 10
