Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Built in 1857, the 140-year-old Academy is considered to be a historical and architectural gem. The architectural lighting challenge was to modernize the facility without comprising the building's historical integrity. Much of the existing lighting was left untouched, with replacement of the antiquated dimming control system and replacement of low efficiency lamping compromising the bulk of the project. The enormous grand chandelier was completely rewired and new downlights were installed within it. Based upon historical research of early photographs, wall sconces on the orchestra level were added back to their original locations. The Philadelphia Academy of Music is the oldest known continuously run opera house in America and the country's only authentic 19th-century opera house.
Theatre consulting and sound, video and communications consulting by
Auerbach Pollock Friedlander.
Client: Vitetta
Owner: The Philadelphia Academy of Music
Photography: Vitetta
Philadelphia Academy of Music
