The Lensic Performing Arts Center

Built in 1931, The Lensic is more than a theater to the people of Santa Fe. For most of the 20th century, The Lensic was a place for a first kiss in the balcony, a grand silver screen in the midst of the Depression, a vaudeville venue where the community could see the singers, actors, dancers, and comedians of the day. It was a place where magic happened.

By the late 1990s, however, the theater had fallen into disrepair. Despite one-of-a-kind architecture and seating for more than 800 people, The Lensic was in danger of becoming an empty house when in 1999 a vision for a world-class performing arts center was born. It was time for a new chapter in the venerated theater’s life.

Thanks to a group of dedicated individuals who saw the [...]

Built in 1931, The Lensic is more than a theater to the people of Santa Fe. For most of the 20th century, The Lensic was a place for a first kiss in the balcony, a grand silver screen in the midst of the Depression, a vaudeville venue where the community could see the singers, actors, dancers, and comedians of the day. It was a place where magic happened.

By the late 1990s, however, the theater had fallen into disrepair. Despite one-of-a-kind architecture and seating for more than 800 people, The Lensic was in danger of becoming an empty house when in 1999 a vision for a world-class performing arts center was born. It was time for a new chapter in the venerated theater’s life.

Thanks to a group of dedicated individuals who saw the potential for the venue and the future benefit for Santa Fe, the renovation and refurbishing of the old theater began in 2000 with gifts from individuals, local businesses, the city, and foundations.

In April 2001, the Lensic Theater once again opened its doors to the people of Santa Fe, now as the nonprofit Lensic Performing Arts Center. It’s a place where magic still happens, more than 200 nights a year.

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