The Friends are pleased to report that the Quarry Amphitheater has been restored and is now open. We quote from a UCSC Newscenter article by Scott Hernandez-Jason:
The campus broke ground on the restoration in November 2016 and crews have been hard at work bringing the Quarry back to its former glory and up to modern standards.
Carved from a former working quarry amidst redwoods and rocky outcroppings, the amphitheater dramatically showcases the deep connection between the campus, its history, and the natural landscape. Designed in the early ’60s by modernist landscape architect Robert Royston, its asymmetrical terraces and sunny park-like character highlight the surroundings.
While some features are upgraded, one has returned to its original state—“the rock,” an outcropping that dramatically pierces the stage.
The project focused on restoration and new enhancements. It provided improvements to accessibility, building code, life safety, and basic operational upgrades to support performances, events, and casual daily use of the venue.
Additionally, seating has been expanded from 1,636 to 2,000; stairs, ramps, handrails, lighting, and overall access is improved and provisions made for portable infrastructure to support events.
The Friends have designed an interpretive sign for the amphitheater that will tell about its historic use as a limerock quarry. It uses photographs taken in the 1920s by quarry worker George Silva. The sign will go up later this year.
