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Performing Arts
The Columbia Theater 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. Without a doubt, the Columbia Theater for the Performing Arts has returned as the “jewel in the crown” of Hammond’s downtown. Community plays are thriving with Tangipahoa Parish’s Command Performers. This group of local amateur actors showcases their talent five plays per year. From musicals to comedies, the Command Performers produce and direct nationally known plays at their theater in Hammond. Tickets are reasonably priced for an evening of outstanding entertainment. Since 1986, FANFARE, Southeastern Louisiana University's unique and exciting festival of the arts, humanities and sciences sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, has offered the very best in music, dance, theatre, lecture, films, exhibits and children's events. Not only has FANFARE entertained an ever growing number of appreciative arts lovers, but the month-long, 60-plus event festival held each October has also worked hard to build audiences for the future through our education outreach programs and school performances. FANFARE offices are now located in the beautifully renovated Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts in downtown Hammond.
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