Body of News Release
San Rafael, CA - The Marin Veterans' Memorial Auditorium (VMA), the largest indoor entertainment venue in Marin County, is set to reopen in January 2027, after three and a half years of closure. The County of Marin is sharing new details on the first phase of renovations at the historic venue, which has hosted legendary performers and landmark community moments for more than 50 years.
The first phase of improvements included:
- Replacing damaged concrete floors in lobby and restroom areas addressing settlement of soils beneath the building.
- Fixing water leaks in floors and below ground level.
- Repairing and replacing sewer lines, drain lines, and other utilities damaged by soil settlement.
- Upgrading heating and cooling systems for better reliability and comfort, including a new air chiller, boilers, and cooling tower.
- Replacing the orchestra pit lift and associated accessibility elements.
- Installing new entry doors that meet current building standards.
- Reupholstered seats throughout the auditorium.
- Building accessible dressing rooms and restrooms for performers.
- Modernization of audio-visual and lighting systems.
The VMA, which opened in 1971, closed in June 2023 for scheduled seismic and code improvement work , and during that work, deeper structural issues were revealed, common in buildings of its age and construction period. Foundational, drainage, and sewer repairs were required before the venue could safely reopen to the public. Once reopened, it will be celebrated for hosting more than 50 years of programming.
"The reopening of the VMA is finally in sight, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome everyone back," said Steve Dow, Marin County’s Director of the Department of Cultural Services. "There are so many Marin memories in this building — concerts, performances, graduations, and more. With the improvements the County is making, and with more still to come, we hope the community will make many more memories here for decades ahead."
"The Veterans' Memorial Auditorium has been an important part of Marin's story for more than 50 years, and it’s our responsibility to make sure it’s safe, functional, and ready continue that legacy,” said County Executive Derek Johnson. “The first phase focused on critical repairs: work that had to be done before anything else. The building had to be made right before it could reopen and inspire the next generation. We are proud of that investment, and we look forward to reopening the doors and welcoming the community back in January 2027."
Programming announcements for the 2027 season are forthcoming. Visit marincenter.marincounty.gov/vma50 for updates.
Revisit the VMA's History
While work on phase one renovations continues inside, the public is invited to explore 125 linear feet of commemorative fence panels installed outside the building, beginning March 26. The panels trace the venue's history from its founding through decades of landmark performances by recording artists such as Jerry Garcia, Willie Nelson, the Doobie Brothers, and Ella Fitzgerald, as well as appearances by notable public figures, including three U.S. Presidents.
Visitors can scan a QR code on the panels to access a curated playlist of music performed at the VMA over the decades. The County is also inviting the community to submit their own VMA memories, which will be featured at marincenter.marincounty.gov/vma50 and across Marin Center's social media channels in the lead-up to the reopening.
About Department of Cultural Services
The Marin County Department of Cultural Services enriches the community by fostering creativity, inclusion and lifelong engagement in the arts. Operating the Marin Center as a cultural hub, the Department produces diverse visual arts exhibits and events, oversees the Frank Lloyd Wright Civic Center docent tour program and partners with the Marin Cultural Association to expand access to the arts for all residents. The Department is also home to the award-winning Marin County Fair, an annual celebration of community, creativity and sustainability that brings together diverse cultures, arts, agriculture and entertainment to create lasting memories and strengthen the spirit of Marin County. For more information, visit marincenter.org.