The Robinson Center in downtown Little Rock is preparing to mark a significant milestone as it celebrates 10 years since completing a massive $70 million transformation, as KATV reported. The venue will host a free public celebration to highlight its decade of operations following the comprehensive project.
According to Libby Doss Lloyd of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Robinson Center officially held its grand reopening on Nov. 10, 2016. The upcoming 10-year anniversary celebration is scheduled for next Tuesday, Nov. 10.
The initial multi-million-dollar undertaking involved a thorough restoration of the historic structure, alongside a modern performance update to meet contemporary artistic standards. The project also featured the expansion of a conference center. Lloyd noted that Little Rock residents were instrumental in funding the effort, crediting voters for approving the bond measure that allowed the extensive renovation to move forward.
Following the structural changes, the facility gained the ability to accommodate larger theatrical productions that could not be hosted inside the venue's original layout. Major touring performances such as Phantom of the Opera and The Lion King have since been held at the facility, in addition to numerous concerts and public gatherings. The center also functions as the permanent home for several resident performance organizations, including Ballet Arkansas, the Symphony Orchestra, and Celebrity Attractions.
When the project was first envisioned, city leaders were tasked with deciding whether to construct an entirely new facility or undertake the restoration of the existing historic building. Lloyd explained that preserving the venue maintained an important connection to local history. The structure bears the name of former Arkansas Governor Joseph T. Robinson, a historic state figure who also served the public as a U.S. congressman.
The anniversary event on Nov. 10 is designed as a community-wide gathering and will run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event is free and open to all members of the public.
During the three-hour celebration, attendees can receive special passport booklets that allow them to visit informational tables set up by various local arts organizations. Participating groups will include Ballet Arkansas, the Symphony Orchestra, and Celebrity Attractions, among other community partners.
In addition to the organizational displays, the anniversary event will offer behind-the-scenes guided tours of the facility. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enter grand prize drawings for season ticket packages provided by the three resident companies.
Live entertainment will be part of the program as well. Lloyd noted that the event will feature a special live performance by an actress scheduled to perform in Beauty and the Beast when the production comes to the venue in May.
Organizers are encouraging community members to plan ahead and arrive early for the festivities. Commemorative lapel pins created for the 10-year mark will be distributed to attendees during the event while supplies last. Further operational details and scheduling for the celebration have been made available online by venue representatives.
