Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts
Breaking the Fourth Wall of Modern Tech
With Live Performance
The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, located at 220 E. Thomas Street in Hammond, LA, is owned and operated by Southeastern Louisiana University. Many know it as a building in Downtown Hammond with an extensive historic past and tons of charm, but only attendees of its immersive, edge-of-your-seat performances know its true identity as the Dream Factory. Here, you will escape the all-consuming realities of smartphones, social media, and streaming services to connect with talented local, national, and international performers on a personal level.
Established in 1928, the historic theatre has a long, significant history within the Hammond community and Southeastern Louisiana— including its triumphant renovation in 2002, a landmark accomplishment for Southeastern Louisiana University, the City of Hammond, and Hammond’s Downtown Development District. The Columbia Theatre produces plays, musicals and interactive events, screens major motion pictures, and hosts concerts, special events, and a variety of live performances. Every square inch of this historic building is utilized, whether the event be held in the 830-seat Hainkel Hall, the Studio Theatre, the Balcony Lounge, or the Main Lobby.
Our Leadership
1938-2005
In Memory of the Honorable John J. Hainkel, Jr.
In 2006, Southeastern Louisiana University proudly dedicated the Performance Hall in the Columbia Theatre to the memory of the late State Senator, John J. Hainkel, Jr. who passed away on April 15, 2005. A dedicated public servant, whose legislative career spanned 37 years, Senator Hainkel was the only state legislator in the United States to be elected as the presiding officer of both the House and Senate.
A true friend of SLU, Senator Hainkel led a strong and united legislative delegation that achieved considerable state financial support, resulting in numerous renovation and construction projects on campus. The restoration of the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts – his “pride and joy” – was largely the result of his efforts in garnering state support for the project. A commemorative plaque is located in the Columbia Theatre‘s Main Lobby as a permanent memorial of his contributions to Southeastern Louisiana University and the State of Louisiana.
2024-2025
Season
Sponsors
Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni Association
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