Greek Theatre Rededication Ceremony

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The University of Arkansas will rededicate the Chi Omega Greek Theatre at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22. This event will celebrate completion of the most recent renovation to this historical campus landmark.

Jane Rogers (B.A. 1968), a member of the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, is also the president of the Chi Omega Foundation and is a member of the Psi Chapter of the Chi Omega Fraternity. She said, “Thoughts of the upcoming rededication ceremony bring tears of joy to my eyes. Chi Omega was a huge part of my life during my years at the University of Arkansas, and it continues to be today. Preserving this structure is important not only to Chi Omega members, but to the entire university community. By working to maintain the beauty and history of the theatre, it will be enjoyed by students for years to come. I am honored to be a part of this celebration.”

With cooperation and assistance from the University of Arkansas, the Chi Omega Greek Theatre was constructed and dedicated in 1930. Previous renovation of this historic structure occurred just prior to the June 23, 1980, rededication of the theatre (the 50th anniversary of its completion) and again in 1995 to commemorate Chi Omega’s centennial celebration.

Sunday’s celebration will celebrate the latest renovation that focused on the replacement of the primary wooden arch and repair to the supporting columns. Phase one of the renovation involved the disassembly and preservation of the arch. During phase two, concrete forms were pre-cast to match the original wooden arch structure. Finally, the Greek Theatre’s arch was reconstructed in phase three.

The Greek Theatre stands today as a loving tribute to the founders of Chi Omega and an expression of gratitude to the University of Arkansas, and it is the only structure of its kind built by a fraternal organization and one of few such theatres in the country.