The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Design and Construction and the Department of Enterprise Services in March shared details of the Blaisdell Concert Hall’s $10-million back-of-house renovation, which included various electrical, safety and convenience upgrades.

“This project is an investment that speaks volumes about our exuberant commitment to performing arts in Hawai‘i,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi in a press release. “It is also a loud and enthusiastic invitation to productions, acts and shows from around the world to come to Honolulu to perform at our world-class venue and to create joy and memories for the residents of our great city.”

The original scenery and lighting rigging system was completely replaced while upgrades were also made to the above-stage rigging area. The new stage rigging system now meets current industry and safety standards and provides additional space for stage production lighting.

Other improvements include a new cooling tower, enhanced electrical system, upgraded dressing rooms, crew toilet and laundry facilities, walkway lighting updates, advanced fire alarm system and an expanded stage sprinkler system.

The Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall will again close for 14 months beginning in 2027 for front-of-house renovations.