Thalia Mara Hall Takes Center Stage Once Again
January 13, 2026
After an extended period of renovation and renewal, Thalia Mara Hall, Mississippi’s historic and celebrated performing arts venue, is preparing to open its doors and its next chapter.
The City of Jackson, Visit Jackson and the Jackson Convention Complex hosted a Sneak Peek Tour and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for members of the media, artists, presenters, tourism partners, and legacy stakeholders commemorating the official reopening of the Thalia Mara Hall Performance Center.
For generations, Thalia Mara Hall has stood as the premier stage for the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the USA International Ballet Competition, Broadway performances, community celebrations, graduations and once-in-a-lifetime cultural moments. Its reopening signals far more than refreshed walls and restored chandeliers—it represents the reemergence of a venue that has shaped the cultural identity of the capital city and the entire state.
Under a new co-management partnership between Visit Jackson and the Jackson Convention Complex, the facility will resume hosting major events beginning January 14, 2026, supported by an aggressive booking strategy designed to attract national touring acts, conventions and signature community programming.
“This hall is woven into the story of Jackson,” said Mayor John Horhn, Mayor of the City of Jackson. “From the moment Thalia Mara first secured the USA International Ballet Competition for our city, this venue has represented excellence on an international scale. Seeing it reopen—renewed and reimagined—tells the world that Jackson is ready to welcome the arts, the artists, and the audiences once again. Thalia Mara Hall is reclaiming its rightful place as the heartbeat of our cultural community.”
Dr. Rickey Thigpen, President & CEO of Visit Jackson, echoed that sentiment.
“The lights coming back on at Thalia Mara Hall mean the soul of our city is shining brightly again. Our co-management partnership with the Jackson Convention Complex gives this iconic venue a unified sales and marketing engine for the first time in its history. What begins this week is a new era of opportunity, one that will bring visitors downtown, create economic impact, and ensure that this stage continues to showcase Mississippi talent to the world for the next 50 years.”
Guests enjoyed champagne, hors d’oeuvres and guided tours as Visit Jackson and venue management unveiled restored seating, upgraded technical capabilities and enhanced patron amenities.
City leaders and legacy stakeholder representatives offered remarks followed by a formal ribbon cutting in front of Thalia Mara Hall. Immediately afterward, media and invited guests were escorted through the building for interviews, photography and a first look at the revitalized space.