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Opened in 1857, the Academy of Music is the oldest grand opera house in the United States still used for its original purpose. It remains one of the busiest halls in the world and hosts a myriad of community functions and cultural activities, including performances by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Ballet and Philly Pops with Peter Nero. The Academy is owned by The Philadelphia Orchestra Association and is managed by The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
The Academy's design features an "open horseshoe" shape which offers greater visibility than most opera houses to the audience seated on both sides of the balconies. The opulent interior of the hall is further enriched by the magnificent crystal chandelier 50 feet in circumference, 16 feet in diameter, and 5,000 pounds in weight. Originally the chandelier had 240 gas burners, but it was electrified in 1900.
The Academy is situated in the heart of the Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia's premier arts district, which encompasses a wide range of performing arts, visual and community-based organizations that have joined together to foster the city's economic revitalization and re-establish Philadelphia's position as a great cultural center. Currently, the main hall is constantly in use for concerts, operas, ballets, and other events. The Ballroom was inspired by the design of the Hall of mirrors at Versailles.
For directions and travel to the Academy of Music follow this link: http://www.academyofmusic.org/fs_direc.htm
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