The Von Braun Center in Huntsville has had a facelift to the tune of $1.4 million.
The enhancements to the exterior of the Propst Arena come after a major overhaul of the interior of the venerable Huntsville event location.
“This arena has been the focal point of large live events in Huntsville for over 47 years,” said VBC Executive Director Steve Maples. “From Johnny Cash opening the venue on March 25, 1975, followed by five consecutive sold-out Elvis shows — plus, another two sold-out Elvis shows the next year — to Dolly Parton, Liberace, Van Halen, Prince, Lionel Richie, Aerosmith, Cher, MC Hammer, Elton John, Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, Reba, Lauren Daigle, Brooks and Dunn — the list really does go on and on, the VBC has brought countless headlining shows to the arena and the Huntsville community has always shown up.”
Maples also mentioned the sports events and teams that have called the arena home.
This exterior project began in December 2021 and was completed in May 2022. The first part of the exterior upgrade included a complete refresh of the façade by Pearce Construction Company, the first major maintenance project to the exterior walls and paint since the original installation in 1973.
The second phase of the exterior project on Propst Arena was the installation of an all-new decorative Lumenpulse LED lighting system designed by Matheny Goldmon Architecture + Interiors and installed by Madison Electric Inc.
“Including this exterior facelift, the Propst Arena has undergone three major renovations over the years,” Maples said. “In 2010, brand new seating was installed, and the lobby and concourse areas were expanded with modern concessions, bars and a cook-to-order walk-up café with outdoor balcony seating. Then, at the end of last year, the backstage area was expanded and remodeled to include beautiful star dressing rooms, state-of-the-art locker rooms, a catering kitchen and multiple offices for touring shows to utilize.”
Venues at the VBC include Propst Arena, Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Mars Music Hall, Playhouse, South Hall, North Hall and East Hall.