Tulsa PAC Will Build Modular Theater for Renovations
The Tulsa Performing Arts Center will construct a temporary facility to host productions during its 2028 closure.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Dance
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As the Tulsa Performing Arts Center prepares for a major renovation starting in June 2028, leadership is planning a new 1,800-seat modular theater. The project aims to maintain performance capacity while the downtown facility undergoes a $135 million transformation.
Why it matters
The shift ensures continuity for local arts groups and touring productions while the historic venue, which opened in 1977, undergoes long-awaited infrastructure updates. Maintaining a venue presence is vital for the city as the center marks its 50th anniversary.
The proposed modular venue will accommodate 1,800 seats, though a smaller 200-seat theater will not be replicated in the design. The overall facility renovation project is currently funded by a $135 million budget, supported by $79.7 million from Improve Our Tulsa 3.
The players
Tulsa Performing Arts Center
This facility is a major hub for performing arts and cultural events in downtown Tulsa.
The University of Tulsa
This is a private research university that owns and operates the Lorton Performance Center.
Mark Frie
He serves as the CEO of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center and is leading the current planning efforts.
Tulsa Ballet
This professional ballet company has maintained a residency at the PAC since 1977.
The details
PAC leadership is currently in negotiations with The University of Tulsa to potentially utilize the Lorton Performance Center for events during the closure. The proposed temporary theater would be constructed in the parking lot south of the main building downtown.
Timeline
Late October 2026: The PAC board will hold a special meeting to vote on the construction and relocation plan.
January 2027: This is the deadline for finalizing partnership negotiations with The University of Tulsa.
May 2027: Tulsa Ballet will conclude its 70th season at the Lorton Performance Center.
June 2028: The Tulsa Performing Arts Center will begin its scheduled closure for renovations.
Fall 2030: The full renovation of the theater facility is scheduled for completion.
Industry Dynamics
The project follows the established funding framework provided by the Improve Our Tulsa 3 initiative. This modular approach reflects a broader trend among major venues to prioritize temporary performance infrastructure during lengthy, multi-year facility modernizations.
Patrons and ticket holders can expect performances to transition to the proposed temporary modular theater or the Lorton Performance Center starting in 2028. These site changes will dictate how audiences access ballet, theater, and other arts programming during the renovation.
The takeaway
The move to build a temporary theater demonstrates how large venues must proactively manage staging during long-term capital improvements. Residents should monitor future board announcements to stay informed about potential shifts in performance locations and schedules.
What happens next
The PAC board is scheduled to vote on the renovation and modular theater plan in late October 2026, with a target of finalizing university partnership agreements by January 2027.
Further reading
Find more updates on the local arts scene in the Dance section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tulsa Flyer.
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