About Dodd Auditorium
Dodd Auditorium is the University of Mary Washington’s multi-use performance space. Dodd Auditorium offers fixed seating for 1237, within the balcony and orchestra levels. The orchestra level seats 915 with 10 handicapped spaces for wheelchair placement and the balcony seats the remaining 322. This venue has served as host to many events which include the UMW Philharmonic concerts, the Great Lives Lecture Series, the Lip Sync Contest, Mr. UMW Contest, PAC Dance Concerts, and many other Department of Music and student run events. On average, over 200 events are held each year in Dodd Auditorium.
Dodd Auditorium opened on January 11, 1940, with a concert by the National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Hans Kindler.
During the summer of 2005, the seating and decor of Dodd Auditorium had a major renovation. The original seats (1215 seats) on the main floor were replaced with wider and more comfortable seats obtained from the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C, reducing the seating to 915. Another major improvement was the installation of 17 large bright chandeliers which offer our audience members a more patron-friendly atmosphere. In addition to making our patrons more comfortable, the entire audience chamber was refurbished to emphasize the architectural details of the auditorium. The overall effect was completed with stunning new drapes and specially-loomed carpeting.
During the summer of 2010, Dodd Auditorium had major tech improvements done. Dodd Auditorium had a new sound and AV system, as well as a T-track counterweight rigging system install. Other improvements included a new lighting and sound booth in the balcony, which reduced the seating to the current 1273 seats, new stage curtains, and all new lighting instruments and lighting console. These improvements will allow for a more professional quality to events housed in Dodd Auditorium.
Dodd Auditorium is located in George Washington Hall. George Washington Hall is found inside the main gates of the campus, off College Avenue. Immediately to the left after entering the gates you will see a large parking lot (Lot 2) which serves as the major parking venue for events held in Dodd Auditorium.