Macky Auditorium Concert Hall: A Boulder Landmark

Macky Auditorium Concert Hall, a cornerstone of the University of Colorado Boulder campus, stands as a testament to the city's vibrant cultural scene. Completed in 1922, this historic venue is celebrated for its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and exceptional acoustics. The auditorium has a seating capacity of over 2,000, making it an ideal location for a range of performances. The auditorium's history began with a bequest from Andrew J. Macky, a Boulder pioneer who left $300,000 to the University for an auditorium. Macky was a prospector during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and a founder of the First National Bank of Boulder. Construction was delayed when Macky's will was contested, and the building stood unfinished for several years. The inaugural concert was held on May 19, 1923. Macky Auditorium has hosted a diverse range of performers and speakers, including Eleanor Roosevelt, the Dalai Lama, Yo-Yo Ma, Jane Goodall, Robin Williams, and Neil deGrasse Tyson. It is also home to the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra and CU Presents' Artist Series. The building itself houses the Center for African and African American Studies, the American Music Research Center, the Center of the American West, and the Center for Humanities and the Arts. The building's architecture features sandstone and red tile, blending with the campus aesthetic while standing out with its two massive towers and ivy-covered walls. A major renovation in 1986 improved the stage, seating, and added an elevator. Macky Auditorium continues to serve the University and the region by hosting high-quality local, national, and international performances and events.