Construction FAQs

Pardon Our Progress!

 

Miller Outdoor Theatre is getting some much-needed upgrades!

Beginning in October 2025, portions of the theatre and surrounding grounds will be under construction to support vital facility improvements that keep Miller running strong for the next century of free performances. While our stage takes a brief intermission, we’re working behind the scenes to ensure an even better experience for performers and audiences alike.

Below you’ll find answers to common questions about the construction timeline, access, and what to expect through Summer 2026.

General Construction Overview
  • What construction is happening at Miller Outdoor Theatre?
    • Construction is taking place on the Miller Outdoor Theatre grounds from October 2025 through June 2026. This work focuses on essential facility upgrades to maintain and upgrade the theatre’s infrastructure. Updates regarding additional projects will be shared later this year.

 

  • Why are these upgrades necessary?
    • These are long-overdue improvements to the theatre’s mechanical and electrical systems, particularly the HVAC system, that keep the stage, backstage, and audience areas functional, safe, and comfortable for artists and visitors alike.

 

  • When will Miller reopen for performances?
    • We aim to complete construction by June 2026, with performances resuming in Summer 2026. Programming dates will be confirmed and announced by Spring 2026.
HVAC & Facility Upgrades Project
  • What is included in the facility upgrades?
    • This $1.8 million project focuses on behind-the-scenes infrastructure: replacing rooftop HVAC condensing units, upgrading under-floor and overhead air-conditioning for the stage, updating electrical systems, among other technical improvements. Portions of the stage, including the orchestra pit, will also be rebuilt with new fire-treated wood flooring and sub-framing.

 

  • Will audiences notice visible changes?
    • Most of this work happens backstage and, on the roof, so there won’t be noticeable visual changes for the public. However, performers and crews will experience a major improvement in comfort and reliability, enhancing the quality of every production for audiences.

 

  • Who is overseeing the work?
    • This project is funded by  Houston First Corporation, which oversees maintenance of Miller Outdoor Theatre.

 

  • Is this part of the 100th Anniversary Capital Campaign?
    • These facility upgrades are separate from the 100th Anniversary Capital Campaign, which focuses on audience-facing improvements such as an upgraded gateway plaza, accessibility, and patron experience enhancements.
Visitor Access During Construction
  • How will construction affect access to the theatre?
    • There will be fencing throughout the Miller site, from the main plaza to areas behind the seated section, to maintain safety. Restrooms will remain open to the public. Beginning in mid-November 2025, additional fencing will line the road along Hermann Park Drive through the plaza and around the Miller Plaza picnic area (the Dining Bosque). The Dining Bosque may not be available for picnicking at certain times.

 

  • Can visitors still walk around the hill and lawn?
    • Walking paths along the hill and lawn will remain open, though some will be bordered by fencing to separate them from construction zones.
Parking, Drop-Offs & Accessibility
  • Where can I park or drop off during construction?
    • Starting mid-November 2025, the drop-off lane along Hermann Park Drive will be closed for use by construction vehicles. Visitors should plan to park or coordinate drop-offs in other safe, approved locations throughout Hermann Park parking areas.

 

  • Will ADA parking or accessibility routes change?
    • Only the Hermann Park Drive drop-off area will be affected. All other ADA parking and accessible routes within the park will remain available, or as managed by our park partners and HPARD.

 

  • What about school buses and field trips?
    • During construction, there will be no daytime performances at Miller, so school bus parking is not expected. However, because buses sometimes use the Hermann Park Drive lane on busy days or to wait for students picnicking nearby, we recommend checking with your field-trip location coordinator for alternate bus procedures.
Contact & Updates

We can’t wait to welcome you back to the Hill for another season of unforgettable, free performances in Summer 2026.
In the meantime, stay connected for updates and behind-the-scenes progress:

 

Thank you for your patience and support as we make these important improvements to ensure Miller Outdoor Theatre continues to inspire, entertain, and unite our city for generations to come