Built in 1913, it was originally known as the Oakland Civic Auditorium. In 1984, following a $15 million refurbishment to reflect its historic and fabled past, the Oakland Auditorium was reborn as the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center.
In 1956 Elvis Presley played one of his first ever West Coast gigs here and many other famous and local musicians have dropped in over the past 90 or so years including The Grateful Dead, Van Halen, Little Feat and White Zombie.
On November 13, 1992 during their Dehumanizer tour Black Sabbath played here, it was Ronnie James Dio’s last gig here as their vocalist. On November 14th, they appeared at the Pacific Amphitheater in Costa Mesa with Rob Halford singing.
Over time, the building’s usage declined. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, many promoters found it more expensive compared to other Bay Area venues, which contributed to fewer shows.
Ultimately, the facility was closed in 2005.
Starting around 2021, major efforts began to rehabilitate and restore the building, including seismic retrofitting and renovation.
The project includes restoring the theatre space and reviving the arena, while also adding new amenities and spaces for arts, community events, performance, and cultural usage.
As of 2024–2025, the venue has reopened under the name Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts
Notable Rock Concerts Held At Henry J. Kaiser Auditorium Include:
April 29, 2005 – New Order
April 11, 2003 – Foo Fighters
December 30, 2001 – Phil Lesh & Friends
April 28, 2001 – Green Day
December 31, 1998 – Hot Tuna
August 27, 1997 – Beck
November 11, 1994 – Jerry Garcia Band
December 31, 1991 – Primus
July 21, 1990 – Red Hot Chili Peppers
November 26, 1989 – Big Brother & the Holding Company
December 13, 1988 – Keith Richards and The X‐Pensive Winos
February 21, 1988 – Alice Cooper
February 12, 1988 – Oingo Boingo
January 18, 1986 – Santana
April 3, 1985 – Depeche Mode
February 24, 1985 -The Kinks
Henry J. Kaiser Auditorium
10 Tenth Street
Oakland CA 94607
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