Civic Auditorium

The landmark Santa Monica Civic Auditorium opened in 1958 as a public gathering place for cultural, educational, and community events. Designed by noted architect Welton Beckett, the classic Streamline Modern building is the architectural focal point for the southern sector of Santa Monica's Civic Center. Regular operation of the Civic Auditorium was suspended in June 2013, due to the loss of redevelopment funds needed to rehabilitate the facility.

More Information 

Press Release:  March 27, 2025 - Economic Growth + Cultural Vitality:  City moves forward in pursuing revitalization of historic Civic Auditorium

Press Release:  Feb. 3, 2025 - Economic Growth + Cultural Vitality:  City continues to seek partnership for future of Civic Auditorium

Press Release: Jan. 10, 2023- City issues request for letters of interest for the revitalization of the Civic Auditorium

Civic Auditorium Background Information

The city received four proposals in response to the Request for Letters of Interest issued in 2024.  On July 25th, 2024 City Council directed staff to pursue an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with Revitalization Partners Group (RPG) and staff presented a draft agreement to RPG on July 31, 2024.  On March 25, 2025 the City Council approved execution of the ENA.  RPG was selected for the ENA based on their experience and financial wherewithal to renovate, operate and program entertainment venues that have historical attributes.   Under an ENA, the city agrees to negotiate with only one entity (RPG) to determine the feasibility for revitalizing the Civic Auditorium site. The ENA also sets forth agreed upon timelines/performance schedules, creates financial responsibilities and outlines future discussions.