Historic Ed Landreth Hall Begins Transformation

After nearly 80 years at the heart of TCU’s performing arts community, Ed Landreth Hall is entering a new chapter.

This summer, the historic building will begin a comprehensive renovation that will transform it into a modern creative hub for the College of Fine Arts. The project will provide updated teaching, rehearsal and performance spaces for students in the Department of Theatre, School of Music and School for Classical & Contemporary Dance while preserving the legacy of one of TCU's most recognizable academic buildings.

Completed in 1948 and named for longtime TCU Trustee E.A. Landreth, the 79,300-square-foot facility is the oldest building on campus that has not undergone a major renovation. While generations of students have learned, performed and created within its walls, the building's infrastructure and facilities no longer reflect the needs of today's programs.

“Given the extensive infrastructure upgrades required, this is the right moment to modernize the facility and provide amenities that better support these programs,” said Jason Soileau, associate vice chancellor for planning, design and construction.

Designed for the Next Generation
The renovation will include expanded rehearsal and performance spaces, redesigned dressing rooms, a new green room and student lounge, additional classrooms, studios, faculty offices and specialized facilities such as a costume studio, design lab and a new black box theatre. The project will also address accessibility requirements and modernize major building systems.

“The renovation of Ed Landreth Hall will revitalize a historic TCU landmark and create a premier destination for performing arts education, inspiring collaboration across artistic disciplines within the College of Fine Arts,” said Amy Hardison Tully, Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts.

A Modern Home for the Arts
Among the most significant improvements will be the transformation of the Jerita Foley Buschman Theatre. The renovated proscenium theatre will feature enhanced acoustics, expanded backstage areas, increased wing space, a new fully functional fly tower and an orchestra pit with a hydraulic lift, creating a more versatile performance environment for students and guest artists.

While construction is underway, programs will continue operating in temporary locations near campus. The university has worked closely with faculty, staff and students to ensure classes, rehearsals and performances continue with minimal disruption throughout the renovation process.

When completed, the renewed Ed Landreth Hall will provide state-of-the-art facilities designed to support future generations of artists, performers and educators. 
Construction is expected to continue through summer 2028, with the building reopening for the fall 2028 semester.  

“By preserving the building’s legacy while investing in its future, the renovation reinforces TCU’s commitment to the fine and performing arts, creative scholarship and community engagement,” said Tully.