What Is the Gogue Performing Arts Center?
Located on Auburn University’s campus, the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center was designed to bring world-class performing arts experiences to East Alabama.
The facility includes:
- The 1,200-seat Woltosz Theatre
- Outdoor performance spaces
- A two-story lobby
- Educational and community event spaces
- The newly added Studio Theatre
- The revitalized Bill and Carol Ham Amphitheatre and Lawn
Whether you’re interested in Broadway productions, concerts, dance performances, lectures, or community programs, the Gogue Center offers something for almost everyone.
Auburn’s New Studio Theatre Creates More Opportunities
One of the most exciting additions to the Gogue Center is the new Studio Theatre.
This intimate black-box style venue was created to host smaller performances, educational programs, artist talks, workshops, community events, and special presentations. The flexible design allows for a more personal experience between performers and audiences.
During the Auburn in Focus presentation, it was clear that Auburn University is continuing to expand the ways people can engage with the arts beyond traditional large-scale performances.
For residents of Auburn and Opelika, that means more opportunities to attend unique events throughout the year.
The Revitalized Ham Amphitheatre Is a Major Upgrade
Another exciting development is the revitalized Bill and Carol Ham Amphitheatre.
The amphitheatre has undergone significant improvements, including:
- Expanded seating areas
- Enhanced stage capabilities
- Upgraded lighting and sound systems
- New landscaping and gathering spaces
- Increased capacity for large outdoor events and concerts
Once fully activated, the amphitheatre will accommodate approximately 4,500 guests and support concerts, festivals, community celebrations, and special performances. Auburn University has also launched a dedicated Amphitheatre Series that will bring even more entertainment options to the community.
As Auburn continues to grow, investments like these help create the quality-of-life amenities that attract students, professionals, retirees, and families alike.
Broadway Shows and Performances Continue to Raise Auburn’s Profile
One thing that stood out during the presentation was the incredible variety of programming the Gogue Center brings to Auburn.
The center regularly hosts:
- Touring Broadway productions
- National recording artists
- Symphony performances
- Dance companies
- Family entertainment
- Educational programs
- Community engagement events
Recent and upcoming performances include productions such as SIX: The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire, Kinky Boots, Bluey’s Big Play, and many other nationally touring performances. The upcoming seasons also feature artists such as “Weird Al” Yankovic, Renée Fleming, Jason Isbell, Cheyenne Jackson, and more.
For a city the size of Auburn, having access to this level of entertainment is remarkable.
Why the Gogue Center Matters to Auburn Residents
The Gogue Center isn’t just about performances.
The center contributes to:
- Tourism
- Economic development
- Education
- Community engagement
- Student experiences
- Auburn’s overall quality of life
Those themes were highlighted during the Auburn in Focus presentation, and it’s easy to see why community leaders continue to support the center’s growth and expansion. The performing arts help create a stronger sense of community while giving residents and visitors more reasons to spend time in Auburn.
My Visit to the Gogue Center
One of my favorite parts of attending this event was simply experiencing the building itself.
From the beautiful lobby spaces to the performance venues and the discussions about the new Ham Amphitheatre and Studio Theatre, it was exciting to see firsthand how much Auburn’s arts scene continues to grow.
The Gogue Center has quickly become one of Auburn’s signature destinations, and it is helping shape the future of arts and culture in our community.
If you haven’t visited yet, I highly recommend checking out an upcoming performance, concert, lecture, or community event.
Living in Auburn Means Access to Experiences Like This
One of the things I love most about Auburn is that it’s constantly evolving while still maintaining its strong sense of community.
Between Auburn University, the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn Athletics, downtown Auburn, and venues like the Gogue Center, there’s always something happening.
These are the kinds of amenities that make Auburn such a wonderful place to call home.
Thinking about relocating to Auburn, Alabama?
I’ve lived in the area since 1988 and have been an award-winning REALTOR® for over 20 years. I’d be happy to help you learn more about Auburn neighborhoods, Auburn University relocation, and homes for sale in Auburn and Opelika.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate is proud to be the Official Real Estate Partner of the Auburn Tigers.
