Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne commemorated the reopening of the Arts United Center today with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

 

President & CEO of Arts United Dan Ross, Arts United Board Chair Dave Haist, City of Fort Wayne Deputy Mayor Karl Bandemer, President of MKM architecture + design and lead architect on the project, Zach Benedict, and President of Hagerman Inc., Brad Smith each spoke about this new chapter for the fifty-two-year-old building.


“The expanded and modernized Arts United Center retains its history while embracing the future by now being a fully functional and accessible venue for patrons, volunteers, staff, and performers alike,” said Dan Ross, President and CEO of Arts United. “We are thrilled to welcome our community back to the Arts United Center.”

 

The ceremony took place outside the new Arts Education Wing, which features a lobby on the west side of the building, a family restroom, an elevator with access to the second-floor studios, and connection to the original lobby. Other significant updates throughout the venue include a community scene shop, East Wing expansion for Fort Wayne Civic Theatre operations, cutting-edge theatre production technology, expanded women’s restrooms in the original building lobby, new theatre seats, and increased accessible seating in the theatre.

 

The expansion and modernization project began after an eight-year planning process that included a comprehensive assessment of the lack of accessibility in the venue, the evolution of theatre technology needs, and the functional needs of the resident and presenting organizations. Historic preservation was prioritized in tandem with the modernization, with recognition of the renown of architect Louis I. Kahn. The National Park Service (NPS) formally listed the Arts United Center on the National Register of Historic Places with National Significance in 2024.

 

Arts United is hosting a free event, “Ghost Light to Spotlight: Arts United Center Reopening Community Celebration,” on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 11 am to 4 pm. This event is an opportunity for the public to enjoy the improved patron experience in the theatre with a variety of performances. For more information on the event visit artscampusfw.org/reopening-community-celebration.