History & Impact

Hancher has been serving the people of Iowa—and artists from around the world—since 1972. Hancher performances and residencies touch lives on campus, in the community, and across the state.

History

The original Hancher Auditorium opened in 1972, hosting world-class artists from the very beginning. The auditorium was also home to a wide array of University of Iowa student performances as well as community events, commencements, and more. Over the years, Hancher earned an international reputation as a commissioner of new work in a number of artistic disciplines.

In 2008, the auditorium was closed by flooding. Following the closing of the auditorium, Hancher continued to present artists in a variety of venues while redoubling its commitment to robust residency activities and statewide impact.

Hancher's new facility, designed by architect Cesar Pelli, opened its doors to the public on September 9, 2016.

A photographic portrait of Virgil Hancher

President Virgil Hancher and a vision for the arts at Iowa

Long before it became an Iowa cultural landmark, Hancher Auditorium was in the mind’s eye of one man. In 1945—27 years before the performing arts center first opened its doors—University of Iowa President Virgil M. Hancher (1940–1964) expressed his hope that the university would build a hall worthy of the world’s finest performing artists. [Hancher] hoped to develop a tradition of performing arts to complement the university’s thriving visual and literary arts.

Sadly, Virgil Hancher did not live to see the fruition of his dreams for a grand hall at the University of Iowa. He never knew the original Hancher Auditorium (which opened in 1972) or its successor (which opened in 2016) would be named for him—but all the artists who have performed on a Hancher stage and all the audience members who have witnessed those wonderful events have honored—and continue to honor—President Hancher’s vision.

Text adapted from And Now Presenting … Hancher Auditorium at 30 by Jean Florman

Impact

Hancher is committed to enriching the lives of every Iowan through transformative artistic experiences. That commitment is demonstrated each time a world-class artist takes to the stage to connect with an audience.

But Hancher’s impact extends far beyond that. The organization connects artists with students across the campus, with people throughout our community, and with people and organizations across the state. These connections share beauty, reveal truths old and new, provide a safe space to explore challenging issues, unlock creativity, and spread joy.

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History & Impact

History

President Virgil Hancher and a vision for the arts at Iowa

Impact