ASU Gammage celebrates 60 years

ASU Gammage, one of the most iconic venues in Arizona, is marking its 60th anniversary.

ASU Gammage Executive Director and ASU Vice President for Cultural Affairs, Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, joined “Arizona Horizon” to discuss Gammage and its 60-year history.

The “pink birthday cake” building, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, debuted on Sept. 18, 1964, with a concert by The Philadelphia Orchestra.

“President Gammage and Frank Lloyd Wright met in about 1957. They were dear friends,” Jennings-Roggensack. President Gammage said, ‘This is a university that demands a great performing arts center.’ And Mr. Wright went, ‘Well, it just so happens I have these plans in my hand.'”

Over the span of six decades, Gammage has hosted hundreds of performances and many other events, including political debates, funerals, rehearsals and convocations.

Jennings-Roggensack has been with Arizona State University since 1992. As executive director of ASU Gammage, she has embarked on several building upgrades over the years.

ASU Gammage is hosting a new musical about growing up and growing old (in no particular order), Kimberly Akimbo, is the winner of 5 Tony Awards including best musical coming to Gammage from December 3-8, 2024