The amphitheater has long been a gathering point for students on campus, hosting student events, classes, weddings, and celebrations of life throughout its history. Renovations to modernize the space will re-establish it as a performance space and enhance the student experience. It will also serve to make this space an extension of the Semple Family Museum of Native American Art. When renovated, the amphitheater will become the largest outdoor gathering space on our growing campus.
The existing seating has deteriorated since it was built almost a century ago. Renovation to the amphitheater will include restoration and maintenance of the existing stone walls where possible. The concrete seating area needs replacement with preservation of the integrated trees and replacement and right-sizing of their planters.
Providing new seating at the top of the hill as well as an accessible path to the stage ensures all users can spectate and participate in activities. Beyond the amphitheater seating would be a handful of smaller, more intimate social spaces between the stage and the Semple Family Museum of Native American Art. This park-like space will be a key element in connecting the museum and the amphitheater. It would be an ideal place for additional seating for concerts and other amphitheater performances.
Architectural work has already begun on this project, and the estimated renovation cost is $2 million. A historic gift of $1 million has been made today by the Semple Family Foundation to fuel this project.
The University has also received a challenge grant from an anonymous source in the amount of $250,000, so this project is only $750,000 away from becoming a reality.
Will you help us today with a gift that will allow us to bring this iconic space back to campus for future generations to enjoy for years to come?!
Naming opportunities are still available through gifts to this project. For inquiry into a naming gift please contact Mark Webb at (580) 745-2361 or mwebb@se.edu.
