HFF PARTNERS WITH RAVINIA TO NAME PAVILION, LAUNCH $75M CAMPAIGN

Extending the Magic of Ravinia to Future Generations

On February 13, 2025, the Ravinia Festival announced an ambitious, multiyear renovation plan centered around the complete transformation of its largest and most iconic venue, the Pavilion. Upon completion in 2026, this reimagined space will be renamed the Hunter Pavilion, honoring Maxine and Thomas B. Hunter III in recognition of a $10 million leadership gift from the Hunter Family Foundation.

“Ravinia has always been a cherished part of my family’s story,” said Bill Hunter, Chairman and CEO of the Hunter Family Foundation. “Growing up, we often went there with my parents, Maxine and Thomas, my grandmother, and our extended family, sharing picnics under the canopy of trees, surrounded by beautiful music and nature. For us, Ravinia represents the perfect intersection of music, art, and nature—a place to relax, be inspired, and build community. This gift is about ensuring that future generations can enjoy that same magic.”

Supported by a $75 million “Setting the Stages” campaign, the project begins with an extensive overhaul of the Pavilion’s infrastructure, enhancing audience experience, artist accommodations, and overall production quality. While the signature roof will remain intact, significant upgrades will include a new stage, advanced acoustics, modernized seating, and cutting-edge lighting and production capabilities. The transformation will unfold in two phases, with initial improvements underway and set to be completed before the 2025 summer season, which runs from June 6 to August 31. The final phase will commence in the fall of 2025 and conclude in time for Ravinia’s 2026 season.

The Hunter Pavilion’s renovations will introduce a deeper stage, a new acoustic shell designed for orchestral performances, a state-of-the-art sound system, updated seating with improved accessibility, and enhanced lighting and video production capabilities. The redesigned back-of-house areas, to be known as the Negaunee Foundation Artist Center, will feature upgraded dressing rooms, new warm-up spaces, a media-ready rehearsal room, and an expanded loading area for more efficient show management.

Chicago-based Lohan Architecture, successors to Mies van der Rohe’s esteemed studio, is leading the architectural vision for the Hunter Pavilion renovation. The design pays homage to Ravinia’s historic character while incorporating contemporary updates. Natural wood and geometric patterns inspired by the Martin Theatre’s windows will help tie the new Pavilion to the festival’s rich architectural legacy.

Additional phases of Ravinia’s comprehensive renovation plan will continue through 2029, culminating in the festival’s 125th anniversary. These will include enhancements to the Sandra K. Crown Theater, the historic Martin Theatre, Bennett Gordon Hall, and the outdoor Carousel stage.

You can read more here on Ravinia’s site here.