Lisser Hall

Lisser Hall is a distinctive performing arts and event venue on the Northeastern University Oakland campus, offering a choice of adaptable spaces for cultural, educational, community and private events. The recently renovated building combines historic character with modern production facilities, creating an atmospheric setting for organisers seeking something more individual than a conventional conference venue.

The main Holland Theater provides a flexible auditorium with retractable seating, allowing organisers to choose between seated performances, smaller intimate gatherings or an open-plan configuration for standing events, installations and workshops. It includes a proscenium stage, sprung wooden flooring, professional lighting, integrated audio, projection and networked audiovisual infrastructure. The theatre is fully accessible and can accommodate up to 271 seated guests or approximately 400 people standing when the seating is retracted.

The adjoining lobby offers a useful reception and arrival area for pre-event drinks, presentations, exhibitions, book launches and informal networking. For outdoor occasions, the Ellen and Glenn Voyles Terrace provides a shaded setting beside Leona Creek, surrounded by mature redwoods, oaks and Monterey cedars. With direct access to the lobby, it is well suited to receptions, celebrations, intimate concerts and small gatherings.

Lisser Hall also includes a compact Digital Performance Theater, a black box-style space with fixed seating, stage capacity and built-in AV capabilities. This room works particularly well for experimental performances, spoken-word events, workshops and smaller presentations. Across the venue, organisers benefit from accessible facilities, on-campus parking, technical infrastructure and a setting designed to support performances, lectures, symposiums, panels, screenings, retreats and creative events in Oakland.