Fisher Auditorium...

“Fisher Auditorium is a showcase for the university, and has hosted literally hundreds of internationally known performing artists for our community to enjoy,” said IUP President Tony Atwater. He added, “This new facility will not only enhance the look of our campus and answer the many functional needs of our university, but will match the caliber of the outstanding performances and programming offered to our community.”

The project included a comprehensive renovation of the facility, including controlled heating and air conditioning with connection to the university’s central chiller plant, and a 20,500-square feet addition to the building for audience entry and performer backstage space.

This addition connects Fisher and Waller Halls. The new environmental system is tied to the university’s upgraded chilled water system and is controlled by the university’s existing energy management system.

The new building (the additional 20,500 square feet of space) includes a new audience entryway, ticket station, reception area, and access corridors and elevators to seating on orchestra level and the existing lobby in Fisher Auditorium and Waller Hall.

Fisher Auditorium and the new space in Waller Hall now make up the university’s largest performing arts venue with seating for 1,460.

Previous to these renovations, Fisher Auditorium had had no major renovations since its construction in 1939.
The public spaces within this new space are designed to allow for exhibition of materials from the University Museum’s Collection and special exhibits, and allow access to both Fisher and Waller in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

For performers, the renovated building offers the types of backstage amenities previously lacking in Fisher Auditorium, including new dressing rooms with showers, makeup counters with mirrors and appropriate lighting, and a locker area. It has direct access to the rear of Fisher. Appropriate warm-up rehearsal spaces that allow for multi-purpose use for musicians, dancers, and performers have also be incorporated into the plan.

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