Fast Facts
For nearly four decades, the Show Me Center has been the region’s go-to destination for unforgettable entertainment, sports, and community events—here are some fast facts that showcase its legacy and impact.
Opening & First Concert
The Show Me Center opened in 1987 with George Jones and Tayna Tucker as it's first concert.
Location, Location
Cape Girardeau, Missouri – on the Southeast Missouri State University campus.
Seating Capacity
The Show Me Center has 7,373 telescopic seats for concerts & events.
Versatility
Hosts concerts, sporting events, trade shows, conventions, banquets, and community events.
Reach
Serves Southeast Missouri, Southern Illinois, and Western Kentucky.
Fun Fact
The arena can flip from a basketball court to a concert stage to a convention floor in just hours—true shape-shifting magic!
Events Hosted
Major concerts
ZZ Top, Elton John, Luke Bryan, and more!
SEMO Redhawks
The official home for SEMO Redhawks basketball games.
School Functions
High school championships & graduations.
Family Shows
Harlem Globetrotters, Disney on Ice, WWE, and more!
Key Renovations & Upgrades
Since opening its doors in 1987, the Show Me Center has never stood still. Over the years, the arena has invested in a series of bold improvements designed to elevate the fan experience, enhance event production, and ensure the venue remains a premier destination for Southeast Missouri and beyond.
From high-tech scoreboards and seating upgrades to structural reinforcements and clean energy innovations, here’s a look at how the Show Me Center continues to evolve with the times.
-
2023
Clean Energy with Solar Power
A 3,500-panel solar array was installed in the Show Me Center’s parking area. Within a year, it generated enough clean energy to power more than 130 homes.
Plus, it provides shaded parking—a literal bright idea combining sustainability and functionality.
-
2016
Structural Strength and Parking Perks
Reinforced 80 existing steel beams to support up to 5,000 pounds each for more elaborate stage rigging. Added 20 new steel beams as well.
A brand-new catwalk improved maintenance access.
The north parking lot got a facelift, making arrivals and load-ins safer and smoother.
-
2015
A Complete Tech and Seating Overhaul
Telescopic seating was reconfigured for seamless, straight access to the court—no more awkward 90-degree turns.
A sleek, center-hung video scoreboard with full video capabilities replaced aging tech.
Upgraded sound and interior lighting systems brought the arena into the modern era.
Roof repairs were also part of this phase.
-
2015
Seating, Visuals, and Ambiance
Alongside the seating and scoreboard improvements, the arena welcomed better lighting and sound systems—making every event feel sharper and more immersive.
-
2015
Video Board Upgrade
A major upgrade included new scoreboards, shot clocks, center-hung video display, fresh lower-level seating, an improved audio system, and bright LED lighting over the court.
Employment / Opportunities
Employment / Opportunities
Crowd Management
Philosophy is designed with the ultimate goal of offering a safe, comfortable and enjoyable event for every patron.
Usher/Ticket Taker
Responsible for maintaining orderly flow and assisting patrons throughout the facility during events.
Ticket Seller
Responsible for the selling of tickets in advance and on the day of events.
Event Security
Responsible for helping management enforce facility policies to ensure patrons are afforded a safe and enjoyable environment during events.
Parking
Responsible for direction of traffic flow in and out of parking areas during events.
Production Crew
Perform tasks related to the setting up and tearing down of show related equipment necessary for an event.
Stagehands
Responsible for the loading and unloading of equipment before and after an event. Will aid with stage set-up, lighting, sound & props. Responsible for setting changes during a show.
Spotlight Operator
Responsible for operating xenon super-trouper spotlights for arena events.
Event Security
Responsible for helping management enforce facility policies to ensure patrons are afforded a safe and enjoyable environment during events.
Audio, Visual Technical Staff
Responsible for operating sound, lighting, video boards, and camera systems.
Rigger(Up)
Responsible for working in the ceiling steel beams with show personnel. To secure suspended production equipment for events.
Rigger(Down)
Responsible for laying out rigging equipment, connecting materials from the ground to be used by Up Riggers.
Food & Beverage
Working for the Food & Beverage team means fast-paced days, big teamwork energy, and keeping the crowd happy one bite at a time. From game nights to sold-out shows, this crew brings the flavor, the hustle, and the smiles that keep fans coming back.
Concessions
Responsible for preparing and selling food & drink to patrons during events and working with in-house catering department.
Volunteer Groups
Volunteer groups help run concession stands during busy events. Contact Tessa at tbollinger@semo.edu for more information.
Operations Crew
Working with our operations crew at the Show Me Center means being part of the heartbeat of every event. They’re the behind-the-scenes pros who hustle hard, solve problems fast, and turn empty space into unforgettable experiences—every single time.
Temporary Part-time Staff
Work with full time operations staff for facility set-up, tear down and clean up of all events.
Other Opportunities
Keep an eye out for additional career opportunities at The Show Me Center as they come available.
