Reynolds Performing Arts Center (RPAC)
and Holmberg Hall
The Donald W. Reynolds Performing Arts Center maintains the look and feel of a turn-of-the-century European opera house, while adding state-of-the-art technology. A likeness of former Fine Arts Dean Fredrik Holmberg looks down from his niche high above the front doors, while a sculpture of newspaper magnate Donald W. Reynolds greets visitors on their way into the performance hall.
Combining the latest technical equipment with the ambiance of a turn-of-the-century European concert hall, the Donald W. Reynolds Performing Arts Center offers the best of both worlds to performers and audience alike. Funded with a $12.2 million grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation of Las Vegas, Nevada, and another $5.8 million in University funding, the facility preserves the grace and beauty of historic Holmberg Hall, while renovating practice rooms, updating the stage house and providing 20,000 square feet of space to the OU School of Dance.
Built in 1918, Holmberg Hall had played host to a parade of international celebrities such as Louis Armstrong, Aaron Copland, Martha Graham and Isaac Stern. But more that, the hall had given Oklahomans a community gathering place like no other in the state. It was the site for commencements, gubernatorial debates and community events from Sooner Scandals to the Cimarron Circuit Opera Company. Long before Catlett Music Center and Rupel Jones Theater, Holmberg Hall was the performing arts space on the OU campus.