McCain Auditorium | Manhattan KS

McCain Auditorium is a prominent performing arts venue located on the Kansas State University (K-State) campus in Manhattan, Kansas. Known for its exceptional acoustics and historic significance, McCain serves as a central hub for music, theater, dance, and community events, hosting performances by university ensembles, professional artists, and touring productions.

Historical Background

McCain Auditorium was constructed in 1970 as part of K-State’s ongoing commitment to the performing arts and cultural enrichment on campus. The auditorium was named in honor of Fred L. McCain, a notable Kansas philanthropist and supporter of education and the arts.

Since its opening, McCain Auditorium has become one of the premier concert halls in Kansas, attracting both regional and national performers while supporting the university’s academic programs in music, theater, and dance.

Architecture and Design

McCain Auditorium is designed as a proscenium theater with an emphasis on acoustic excellence and audience comfort:

Seating Capacity: Approximately 2,000 seats, including orchestra and balcony levels

Stage: Large proscenium stage capable of accommodating symphony orchestras, theatrical productions, and dance ensembles

Acoustic Design: Engineered to enhance natural sound projection, making it ideal for classical music and spoken performances without heavy amplification

Interior Features: Comfortable seating, sightline optimization, and elegant architectural detailing that blends functional design with aesthetic appeal

The auditorium’s design allows for versatility, supporting concerts, lectures, ceremonies, and multimedia presentations.

Resident Ensembles and Performances

McCain Auditorium serves as a home venue for several K-State performing arts groups:

K-State Symphony Orchestra: Performs classical and contemporary repertoire

K-State Chorale and Concert Choirs: Vocal ensembles presenting diverse musical genres

Theater and Dance Programs: Student productions, touring shows, and collaborations with faculty

Guest Artists: National and international musicians, speakers, and performers regularly use the space for concerts, lectures, and masterclasses

The auditorium’s programming emphasizes a blend of educational opportunities and public performances, providing students with professional-level performance experience.

Educational Role

McCain Auditorium plays a central role in K-State’s music and performing arts curriculum:

Student Recitals and Concerts: Undergraduate and graduate music students perform regularly

Workshops and Masterclasses: Visiting artists provide instruction and mentoring for students

Community Engagement: Schools, local music programs, and regional arts organizations collaborate on educational programs hosted at McCain

The facility integrates academic development with cultural exposure, enhancing both student training and community access to high-quality performing arts.

Events and Community Use

Beyond university programming, McCain Auditorium is a regional cultural venue:

Hosts concert tours, Broadway touring productions, and dance performances

Serves as a site for lectures, award ceremonies, and civic events

Supports community programs such as music festivals and outreach performances

Its combination of capacity, acoustics, and location makes it a primary venue for both campus and regional audiences.

Facilities and Amenities

Lobby and Reception Areas: Spacious entrance areas for gatherings, receptions, and intermission activities

Box Office: Ticketing services for university and public performances

Backstage Facilities: Dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces, and storage for instruments and stage equipment

Accessibility: ADA-compliant entrances, seating areas, and restroom facilities

Parking: Campus and nearby lot access for visitors

These amenities enhance the visitor experience, supporting both performers and audiences alike.

Visiting Information

Location: Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas

Capacity: Approximately 2,000 seats

Operating Hours: Event-dependent; typically open during performance hours

Tickets: Available online, at the box office, or through university and community sales channels

Accessibility: Fully compliant with ADA standards for seating and facilities

Visitors to McCain Auditorium can enjoy high-quality acoustics, comfortable seating, and a professional performance environment, making it a key destination for cultural events in Kansas.

Significance

McCain Auditorium is an integral part of K-State’s cultural and educational landscape. It exemplifies the university’s commitment to the performing arts, providing a venue that supports student learning, professional performance, and community engagement.

Its historic value, architectural design, and outstanding acoustics have established McCain Auditorium as one of the premier concert halls in the region, making it a landmark for both campus life and the broader cultural community of Manhattan and northeast Kansas.

The auditorium continues to serve as a bridge between education, performance, and public enjoyment, ensuring that music, theater, and dance remain accessible and vibrant within the university and surrounding area.