Jesse Auditorium
About this venue
An auditorium has been part of Jesse Hall since 1885. At that time, it was known as Academic Hall which burned to the ground in 1892 leaving the iconic six columns that now stand on the Francis Quadrangle. After the fire, the New Academic Hall was built, later named Jesse Hall after University president Richard Henry Jesse. The new auditorium sat 1,200 people with a renovation in 1953 taking the capacity to 1,700. Jesse Auditorium is the largest performing hall in Columbia making it a perfect stop for many national and international touring shows. It also serves as the main space for student activities and university ceremonies.
Plan Your Visit
Features and equipment
- Costs are dependent on the specific needs of each event but generally Jesse Auditorium rents for $3,800 Friday – Sunday and $3,150 Monday – Thursday There are discounted rates for non-profit organizations.
- Stage labor is charged hourly reflecting the actual hours worked by the staff. Overtime is charged after eight hours on the clock each day.
- Fully equipped theatrical stage. Almost all equipment is included in the room rental fee, including:
- Basic staging (drapes, stage risers)
- Lighting
- Sound
- Video