Miller Performing Arts Center undergoes renovations, expected to reopen in November

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Miller Performing Arts Center, which is home to many community theater and school musical productions, is closed for the summer.

The nearly 100-year-old building is having renovations done to its auditorium. Renovations cost $1.5 million, which is coming from a bond issue approved by 68% of voters. Renovations began Monday and will be completed in October, with its next performance is expected to occur in November.

Miller Performing Arts Center is used for educational, community and professional arts programs. The Performing Art Center opened in 1926, where it was first known as Jefferson City Junior College, the Jefferson City School District website says. The center is used by students from multiple levels of the Jefferson City School District.

Renovations were prompted out of need for the Jefferson City School District's increasing number of students interested in fine arts, such as orchestra, band, choir and theatre, according to Miller Performing Arts Center Director Gabrielle Wittenberg.

"They really were very happy and  interested and very positive about including the Miller Center and updating us." Wittenberg said. "So that we're somewhat industry standard so that we can educate our kiddos on what they might be using if they go into this once they get to college. And so that's where you know, basically Jefferson City voters said yes."

Some of the renovations include new curtains, LED lighting and improved ropes and cabling to improve safety.