The Grand Re-Opening of Columbia’s historic landmark and renown entertainment venue, the Township Auditorium was held on Thursday, June 10th to Sunday, June 13th. The highly anticipated opening weekend included various national acts, including Tony Bennett, a ticket only Gala and a Community Open House. The Gala, held on Friday, June 11th at 6:30pm, benefited the Township Auditorium Foundation and included a silent auction, reception, and dinner with music from the widely acclaimed band, The Headliners. The Grand Re-Opening Gala also featured speakers Paul Livingston, John Whitehead, Joe Pinner, and Sally Roach. On Sunday, June 13th, from 2 to 6 pm the Community Open House Day was free and allowed the public to experience the Township while enjoying food and entertainment from local Columbia talent.
The Township Auditorium Foundation’s goals are to provide educational outreach to schools in the area along with scholarships and programming opportunities for underserved markets.
Since its closing one year ago in June 2009, the Township has gone through a $12 million renovation project, which was managed by Dennis Corporation. Dennis Corporation Building Construction Manager, Ross Travis, served as Project Advisor of Construction Management for the Township Project. When reflecting on the project, Mr. Travis stated, “Having the opportunity to work on such a significant building in Columbia has made this project one of my favorites. The grand re-opening of the Township commemorated the hard work and dedication that many individuals put forth to restore one of Columbia’s most famous landmarks for future generations to enjoy for years to come.”
The newly renovated Township displays an expanded atrium style lobby, new box office, new elevator, new restrooms on each level, concession areas, quadrupled dressing room space, new loading bays and dock storage areas and new lighting and sound. These features will assist in making the Township an even more sought after venue in Columbia for national talent.
Dennis Corporation is a South Carolina licensed civil engineering, surveying and construction management firm. Dennis Corporation’s specific fields of expertise include aviation engineering, civil infrastructure, construction management, construction services, environmental services, expert witness, geotechnical engineering, intelligent transportation systems, program management, special projects, surveying, traffic engineering, transportation engineering and water resources.