Gertrude Ford Center

Mission:

The Gertrude Castellow Ford Center for the Performing Arts shall enrich the intellectual and cultural environment of the University of Mississippi and the region by providing a venue for programming in performing arts, public affairs and the humanities. The Ford Center will complement the University’s commitment to excellence in education, research and service while celebrating imagination, innovation and creativity.

History:

The Gertrude C Ford Center for the Performing Arts officially opened on Friday, March 28, 2003 with an inaugural gala hosted by Robert C Khayat, Chancellor of the University of Mississippi and starring Morgan Freeman as master of ceremonies.

The Ford Center became a reality in 1998 with a gift of $20 million from the Gertrude C Ford Foundation. The State of Mississippi contributed $500,000 for initial planning followed by an appropriation of $10 million for construction of the Ford Center. The construction was completed in December of 2002.

We host a variety of events including touring Broadway shows to various Ole Miss productions and events. Each year, we host a variety of Ole Miss Music Concerts, as well as events such as the Phi Kappa Phi Initiation, School of Pharmacy White Coat Ceremony and Commencement. Each year we welcome a variety of touring Broadway shows. In the past few years, we've had Hadestown, Dear Evan Hansen, Waitress and the Frontmen of Country. Our volunteer usher corps helps make these events a success by welcoming patrons, helping guests find their seats, distributing programs, answering questions and selling concessions and merchandise. Volunteers sign up for the events that interest them and work with their schedule. Events happen day and evening, weekday and weekends! Volunteers are able to watch the events they work at for free. We ask that our ushers wear black pants/skirt, white shirt/top/sweater and comfortable shoes.