About

The Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts, also known as The Henry J., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We manage the historic building and its programs through an operating agreement with Calvin Simmons Theatre, Inc., also a nonprofit organization.

On the National Registry of Historic Places and located in the restored former Oakland Municipal Auditorium, The Henry J. is a world-class event center featuring five distinctive spaces: a 25,000-square-foot arena, the 1,400-seat Calvin Simmons Theatre, the intimate North Stage Ballroom that seats up to 220, a gorgeous terrace overlooking Lake Merritt and multiple other spaces for events, rehearsals and performances.

Conveniently situated at the edge of Lake Merritt near downtown Oakland and Chinatown, this historic landmark hosted countless performances, concerts, community gatherings, and celebrations during its original 90-year run. Today, it is once again a vibrant destination for arts, culture, entertainment, and community connection.