San Jose Civic Auditorium, known as the San Jose Civic, is a sports arena and concert venue, located in downtown San Jose, California. The 3,000-seat venue is owned by the City of San Jose, is managed by Team San Jose and is booked by Nederlander Concerts.
It was created through a joint venture between San Jose residents, Federal Government and local property owners Mr. and Mrs. T.S. Montgomery, who donated to the City of San Jose, the property where the Civic sits today.
Many of the most popular entertainers and public figures have appeared at the venue creating memorable historic events since its opening in 1936. Richard Nixon made national headlines during an anti-war demonstration at the San Jose Civic.
It has presented major sporting events including boxing matches with champions such as Jack Dempsey and Joe Louis.
Under Mayor Chuck Reed and San Jose City Council's leadership, a $13 million renovation of the venue, approved in 2007, is underway. A state-of-the-art sound and video system has been installed, the building's floor has been refurbished, an exterior lighting system has been activated, and the loading dock has been upgraded. Key improvements in process include a top-line interior lighting system, seating upgrades to replace the decades-old plastic molded chairs, more restrooms and a new concessions program.
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—Merle Colby, U.S. public relief program (1935-1943)
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—Antonin Artaud (1896–1948)