Hammer Theatre
The Susan and Phil Hammer Theatre Center is a performance venue in Downtown San José. Located on the Paseo de San Antonio, the theatre is operated by San José State University.
History
The Hammer Theatre Center began as a home for the San José Repertory Theatre Company, which was founded in 1980. The company became known during its early years as the fastest-growing professional theater company in the U.S. To have a theatrical home, the company collaborated with the San José Redevelopment Agency to build the Hammer Theatre in downtown San Jose. The Hammer Theatre, named after former mayor Susan Hammer and her husband, Phil Hammer, was completed in 1997.In June 2014, the San José Repertory Company declared bankruptcy and the building that is now the Hammer Theatre Center was shuttered.
Efforts to reopen the venue resulted in a partnership between San José State University and the city of San José. The Hammer Theatre reopened in March 2016.
Facilities
Sobrato Auditorium, a theatrical auditorium space that seats up to 520.Hammer 4, a black box performance space that can fit up to 120 seats.Curtain Call Café, a ground floor space with a bar for special gatheringsMercury News Lounge, a second floor loungs with a bar for private parties.Rooftop Terrace attached to the Hammer4 studio- Dressing rooms located in the basement for performers
- Bar/concessions area located near the front entrance in the lobby
- 2nd floor lobby, home to the Hammer2 Gallery that features a rotating display of artwork by San José State University alumni.
- Outside balconies