NEW YORK — Gov. Kathy Hochul, joined Saturday by leaders of the New York Philharmonic, announced the debut of the new $550 million David Geffen Hall in Lincoln Center after a two-year renovation.
“The transformation of David Geffen Hall is a pitch-perfect addition to one of New York’s premier concert venues at the iconic Lincoln Center,” said Hochul. “Thanks to our well-orchestrated partnership, this project will boost New York’s cultural and economic life.”
The new Manhattan facility, a major upgrade from the old Avery Fisher Hall, came in two years ahead of schedule and marks its reopening with the world premiere of renowned trumpeter, composer and percussionist Etienne Charles’ show “San Juan Hill: A New York Story.”
The new facility was boosted by a $1 million donation from its namesake Geffen, the Brooklyn-born entertainment mogul behind the careers of music stars Joni Mitchell and The Eagles and a string of hit Broadway musicals.
He also teamed with director Steven Spielberg and former Disney executive Jeffrey Katzenberg to co-found the movie studio and production company DreamWorks.
The Empire State Development Corp. provided $6.5 million toward the transformation of the old facility that opened in 1962 and hosts the New York Philharmonic orchestra.
“The New York Philharmonic’s distinguished history is about to embark on a new chapter with the re-opening of David Geffen Hall,” said Deborah Borda, Philharmonic president and CEO. “We emerge from the dark days of the pandemic and from the rebuilding process a stronger institution.”
According to officials, the project will create 114 new full-time jobs, along with launching a diversity and arts fellowship providing at least five fellowships in a five-year period.
The Geffen Hall will also host a minimum of 45 days of free public programming annually in the surrounding public spaces in its first five years of operation, and the project included creation of roughly 21,000 square feet of public space in and around the hall.
Other upgrades include a new Welcome Center and expanded lobby, along with The Sidewalk Studio — a multipurpose site for activities including performances, lectures and community programming.
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