Power Center

The Power Center for the Performing Arts was bred from a realization that the University of Michigan had no adequate proscenium-stage theatre for the performing arts. Hill Auditorium was too massive and technically limited for most productions, and the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre too small. The Power Center was built to supply this missing link in design and seating capacity.

In 1963, Eugene and Sadye Power, together with their son Philip, wished to make a major gift to the University, and amidst a list of University priorities was mentioned "a new theatre." The Powers were immediately interested, realizing that state and federal government were unlikely to provide financial support for the construction of a new theatre.

Opening in 1971 with the world premiére of The Grass Harp (based on the novel by Truman Capote), the Power Center achieves the seemingly contradictory combination of providing a soaring interior space with a unique level of intimacy. Architectural features include two large spiral staircases leading from the orchestra level to the balcony and the well-known mirrored glass panels on the exterior. No seat in the Power Center is more than 72 feet from the stage. The lobby of the Power Center features two hand-woven tapestries: Modern Tapestry by Roy Lichtenstein and Volutes by Pablo Picasso.