About

The Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts is a world-class event center at the former Oakland Municipal Auditorium. Within its walls are 5 spectacular event spaces: a 25,000-square-foot arena, a 1,500-seat proscenium theatre, a speakeasy-style lounge, and 2 hotel-style ballrooms.

Conveniently located on the edge of Lake Merritt near Oakland’s Downtown and Chinatown districts, this historic building hosted countless performances, concerts, and recitals in its original 90-year run.

Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts Building Exterior under construction
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts Calvin Simmons Theatre seating
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts historic building details
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts historic building exterior architecture
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts North Ballroom
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts Arena seating and windows
Panoramic photo of Lake Merritt waterfront from the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts rooftop
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts Gold Room

Bridging History with the Future

View Our Historical Gallery
Digital mockup of people walking outside of the HJK building on a nice day
Vintage black and white photo of the Calvin Simmons Theatre stage ©1914
Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts historic building details

Committed to the Community

Read more about our community impact:

Our Community Benefits Agreement