HOUSTON (October 5, 2026) – The Foundation for Jones Hall and Houston First Corporation today announced the completion of a five-year initiative to renovate and enhance Jesse H. Jones Hall for the Performing Arts. The announcement comes as the iconic cultural institution celebrates its 60th anniversary.
The multi-year project represents a substantial investment in the future of Jones Hall, improving the experience for audiences and performers while ensuring the venue continues to serve Houston’s performing arts community for generations to come.
Completed through a partnership between Houston First, which operates the city-owned Jones Hall, and the Foundation for Jones Hall, the improvements touched virtually every aspect of the patron and performer experience. Work was strategically phased over five years to allow Jones Hall to remain an active performance venue throughout much of the project. Jones is home to the Houston Symphony and Performing Arts Houston, which together led the effort to raise more than $67 million to fund improvements through the foundation.
“Jones Hall has been at the center of Houston’s performing arts community for six decades, and this investment ensures it will remain there well into the future,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “I’m pleased to see Houstonians come together to help preserve this important arts space.”
Renovations were completed in stages over five summers starting in 2021 to avoid displacing performances by the resident companies. Improvements led by the Foundation included but were not limited to:
• new seating and the creation of aisles in the performance hall
• significant acoustical improvements including new sidewalls and orchestra shell
• a refinished stage floor and new grand curtain
• renovated and reconfigured lobby
• expanded and relocated restrooms
• expanded and renovated Green Room
The work also addressed critical building infrastructure and incorporated new technology and design elements intended to improve both the functionality of the venue and the experience of attending a performance. Improvements completed by Houston First include new house lighting, new elevators including the 10,000 lbs. glass elevator in the lobby, a completely new roof, and updates and improvements to the HVAC system and fire alarms among other items.
“The completion of this project represents the fulfillment of an ambitious vision for the future of Jones Hall,” said Barbara McCelvey, Immediate Past Chair, Board of Directors of Foundation for Jones Hall. “This transformation was made possible by an extraordinary community of donors and supporters who understand the importance of the performing arts to Houston. Together with Houston First, we have preserved what generations of Houstonians love about Jones Hall while making the investments necessary to ensure this extraordinary venue continues to inspire audiences and artists for decades to come.”
Opened in 1966, Jones Hall has served as one of the anchors of Houston’s Theater District and has welcomed millions of patrons during its history. In addition to the Houston Symphony and Performing Arts Houston, the hall has hosted many of the world’s most celebrated musicians, performers and artists through the decades.
“Great cities invest in the institutions and public spaces that bring people together,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First. “Jones Hall has done that for Houston for 60 years. With this transformation complete, we are excited about what the next 60 years will bring.”
The project also represents a broader investment in Houston’s downtown cultural infrastructure. Jones Hall is among the major arts and entertainment venues managed by Houston First and plays an important role in attracting residents and visitors to the Theater District and supporting the restaurants, hotels and businesses that benefit from downtown activity.
About Foundation for Jones Hall
When the Opera and the Ballet moved out of Jones Hall, the Foundation for Jones Hall (FJH) was established in 1986 as a partnership between the Houston Symphony and Performing Arts Houston to protect the quality of the Hall over the long term. The mission of FJH is to ensure the ongoing excellence of Jones Hall as a performing arts venue for all the citizens of Houston.
Following a major renovation of the Hall between 1991 and 1993, FJH has also managed backstage operations in the Hall. It has raised and invested millions to improve Jones Hall over time and is leading the current renovation project as well. The Foundation is governed by a board comprised of Symphony and PAH representatives. It is led by Executive Director Robert Eubanks, supported by a backstage team and with administrative and fundraising support provided by the nonprofit consulting firm Sterling for Good.
About Houston First Corporation
Houston First Corporation (HFC) is a local government corporation and the destination marketing organization for the country's fourth largest city. In addition to serving as operator for the George R. Brown Convention Center and some of Houston's most prominent art, entertainment, and event venues, HFC is focused on promoting the city's vibrancy and rich tapestry of culture. By harnessing the city's collective energy, ambition, and creativity, including its diverse culinary scene, world-renowned performing arts, medical and space innovation, and elite filming locations, HFC is solidifying Houston as a premier national and global destination. For the latest news and info regarding HFC, visit www.houstonfirst.com.
Media Contacts
Carolyn Campbell
carolyn.campbell@houstonfirst.com
(832) 982-9902
Mike Horton
mike.horton@houstonfirst.com
(346) 898-8576
