When the Robinson Center first opened its doors to the citizens of Little Rock, Arkansas in 1939, it was the largest air-conditioned auditorium in the state, with seating for up to 3,000 people. Featuring a theater, arena and several convention and lecture halls, the Robinson Center soon became the cultural center of life in Little Rock.
But after delighting audiences with a variety of musical and theatrical performances for more than 70 years, Little Rock city officials decided the Robinson Center was in need of a facelift. On July 1, 2014 the Robinson Center was closed so that the building could undergo an extensive renovation process that cost $70 million and took two years to complete.
Renovations included upgrades to the acoustics and audio/visual systems, an expansion of the loading dock and refinishing of the building’s iconic Art Deco style. During the course of the renovations, the Robinson Center was effectively gutted to its concrete shell so the interior could be completely rebuilt. City officials initially considered abandoning the building due to the expected cost of the renovations, but they were able to convince taxpayers to approve funding for the project with a vote in 2013. Now, four years later, it’s safe to say that the city is pleased with its decision to revive the aging building.
“This hall is not just our instrument as an orchestra, but it’s a place where Arkansans of all ages and every background can come together collectively and communally and share beautiful experiences together,” said Philip Mann, music director of the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra during the Robinson Center’s reopening ceremony.
The first performance in the newly-renovated auditorium took place in late November of 2016 when the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra took the stage for its annual Opus Ball.
At Construction Protection Systems, we’re proud to have had the opportunity to play a part, however small, in the rebirth of one of Little Rock’s oldest cultural institutions. Stay tuned for more updates from the makers of 1-2-3 Door Shield—the original, reusable door protection system.