One more place to enjoy near Iowa City in Iowa
Hancher Auditorium is a world-class performing arts center located on the campus of the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Originally opened in 1972, Hancher has featured acclaimed artists and companies from around the globe, making it one of the premier cultural destinations in the Midwest. The auditorium serves as the primary performance venue for University of Iowa students and the broader Iowa City community.
After a devastating flood in 2008, Hancher underwent an extensive rebuilding process and reopened in 2016 in a stunning new facility designed by renowned architect Cesar Pelli. The new building represents a commitment to artistic excellence and community resilience, continuing Hancher’s legacy as a center for performing arts innovation.
The original auditorium was a gift to the University of Iowa from the family of Julian Hancher, a former Iowa businessman. From its inception, the venue was designed to attract top-tier performers and provide cultural enrichment to students and residents of Eastern Iowa. For more than three decades, Hancher hosted an impressive roster of performers, including Tony Award-winning productions, internationally recognized musicians, and celebrated dance companies.
The devastating flood of 2008 forced the closure of the original building, which sat along the Iowa River. Rather than abandon the venue, the University of Iowa committed to rebuilding, viewing the project as an opportunity to reaffirm its dedication to the arts. After years of planning and construction, the new Hancher Auditorium opened on September 9, 2016, featuring state-of-the-art acoustics, flexible seating configurations, and a modern architectural design.
The facility features multiple performance spaces, including the main Goldman Theater and the more intimate Stadheim Stage, allowing for both large-scale productions and intimate performances. The main stage has welcomed Grammy Award-winning musicians, Tony Award-winning Broadway productions, and internationally acclaimed dance companies. Programming includes classical music concerts, jazz performances, contemporary dance, theater productions, and family-friendly shows.
The building’s contemporary design incorporates natural materials, including wood and stone, that reflect Iowa’s landscape while creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Large windows offer views of the surrounding campus and the Iowa River, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. The surrounding A. J. K. Park provides additional green space for pre-show gatherings and post-performance socializing.
The fall season brings a robust programming calendar to Hancher Auditorium, with performances ranging from classical concerts to contemporary theater. Winter and early spring offer an intimate theater experience, as the indoor venue provides a warm escape during colder months. Summer programming shifts outdoors when possible, with the venue hosting outdoor concerts and community events.