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
