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Hill Auditorium
IMAGE TITLE DESCRIP IMAGE TITLE DESCRIP IMAGE TITLE DESCRIP IMAGE TITLE DESCRIP	In 1894, it was decided that an adequate auditorium be built for large student activities, performances, as well as space for the University Musical Society.[55] For nearly fifteen years, funds were gathered from private donors. In 1910 the university was bequeathed a monetary sum from former regent Arthur Hill in the amount of $200,000 to be used to construct an auditorium.[55] In 1913, Arthur Hill Auditorium was completed at the cost of about $282,000.[55] The building is located on the corner of North University and Thayer Streets. It is a square, red and brown brick building with limestone trim, and four engaged columns on the front façade. It was designed by Albert Kahn of Detroit and constructed by James L. Stuart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. When it was built, Hill Auditorium could seat 4,300 people.[55] It has three different seating levels within the parabolic shaped auditorium. In fact, this shape is the reason behind the auditorium’s rich acoustical properties. It is possible to hear a person talk softly without on microphone on stage anywhere in the auditorium.[55] A notable fixture behind the stage is the Frieze Memorial Organ moved from University Hall after the auditorium opened. The organ is named in honor of Professor Henry Simmons Frieze, who taught in the later part of the nineteenth century.[6] In May of 2002, extensive work was begun to renovate in the interior, restore the ornamental decoration on the inside and outside, and update services and amenities.[6] Hill Auditorium reopened during the 2004-2005 school year, impressing students and visitors with its renewed architectural grandeur and beautiful details painted in vibrant colors. Hill Auditorium still remains today, a favorite place among students to watch concerts and other events.
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