The more than 1,400 seats at Indiana University's Musical Arts Center will be refurbished for the first time since the venue was built in 1971 as part of a Bicentennial project. 

IU President Michael A. McRobbie made the announcement before a performance of "La Traviata" at the MAC on Feb. 28.

"As we celebrate the Bicentennial of Indiana University, it is only fitting that we undertake this work to provide an enhanced and more comfortable experience for our opera-, ballet-, and concert-going audiences here in one of the truly iconic artistic gems of the Bloomington campus," McRobbie said. 

All of the seats in the MAC will get new cushioning, upholstery and seat backs. The carpet will also be replaced, and additional changes will make the venue more accessible.

The renovations are funded by a generous gift from the Well House Society of the IU Foundation. The supporters make annual donations to support special projects at IU, including renovations and restorations aimed at preserving the heritage of the university.