Fine Arts and Communications Renovation Program

2026-2027 Academic Year Opening Status: Renewed upper-floor spaces are in use, and active work continues on the first floor, lower levels, elevator, theater, and selected building systems.

Renewing a Home for Black Creative Excellence

Howard brought Art, Music, and Drama together as the College of Fine Arts in 1960, and the programs moved into the newly built Lulu Vere Childers Hall. Opened in 1961, Childers Hall anchors the north side of The Yard and carries the name of the acclaimed music educator who led Howard's musical program for 35 years.

Beside it, the 300-seat Ira Aldridge Theater honors the pioneering 19th-century Black Shakespearean actor who built an internationally celebrated career on European stages. Designed by Hilyard Robinson and Paul R. Williams, the theater has served generations of Howard performers, designers, directors, and audiences.

From Completed Floors to the Next Phase

The current phase continues a larger renewal already visible across the complex. Renovated upper-floor spaces have strengthened classrooms, studios, offices, and creative environments. Work then moved into the first floor, lower levels, elevator, theater, and supporting building systems.

Construction is active in the Ira Aldridge Theatre and adjoining circulation areas. Near-term work is moving toward first-floor and occupant milestones during August, followed by remaining interior work later in 2026. Full occupancy is planned for the 2027-2028 academic year.

Across these phases, the goal is consistent: support artistic training and production in spaces worthy of Howard's creative legacy, while preserving the identity of facilities that have long stood at the center of Black performance, music, and visual culture.

Schedule information reflects current targets as of the opening of the 2026-2027 academic year and may change as work progresses.