It’s been more than a year since the presence of mold in Thalia Mara Hall underscored a myriad of issues within the event venue and forced officials to close its doors for repairs. But Jackson officials are looking forward to concerts, shows, and other entertainment events returning to the 2,040-seat concert hall sooner than later.
On Tuesday, the Jackson City Council approved a measure proposed by Mayor John Horhn that puts Thalia Mara Hall under the joint management of Visit Jackson and the Jackson Convention Complex.
Visit Jackson, the city’s visitor’s bureau, is expected to take charge of promoting the venue, while the Convention Complex is anticipated to handle maintenance and other facilities operations.
Thalia Mara Hall closed in August 2024 after the city’s indoor air quality assessment confirmed microbial activity was present, likely due to a faulty heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system and roof leaks. Human waste was also found in the balcony area. Among other troubling discoveries were an outdated fire curtain riddled with asbestos and a major pipe in need of repair.
The building’s closure caused area residents to miss out on Kevin Hart shows, performances from the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, and other events. But now, with the venue getting a much-needed facelift, the newly-elected Horhn is setting his sights on a date in early 2026 to mark the reopening of Thalia Mara Hall. Meanwhile, events are in the process of being booked.