The vintage theater, once regarded as the "jewel in the crown" of Hammond's downtown, has been saved from decades of neglect and restored to its former grandeur and elegance by the efforts of Southeastern Louisiana University, the City of Hammond and the Hammond Downtown Development District. It reopened its doors in January 2002.

The theater contains seating for 900 – approximately 500 orchestra (floor) seats and 400 balcony seats. The stage, which originally accommodated vaudeville acts, was enlarged to suit the needs of today’s performing artists by removing original upstage dressing rooms and extending the rear wall.   The Columbia Theater features a number of performances throughout the year and is also host to a variety of dance recitals, ceremonies, and private events.