By Gus Saltonstall
Symphony Space announced on Monday a $45 million renovation project that will close its Upper West Side building until 2028.
The arts organization, located at 2537 Broadway, between West 94th and 95th streets, will temporarily close for construction by the end of this year and then re-open in 2028, but did not specify either date.
“We are reshaping and reimagining our home in a way that aligns with our core values and underpins our commitment to being a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming space—one that supports artists across disciplines and generations, opens our doors wider to communities across New York City and beyond, and invites everyone to participate,” Kathy Landau, the executive director of Symphony Space, said in a news release.
During the closure period, Symphony Space will perform programing at pop-up venues across New York City. The Upper West Side arts organization has not announced the locations where those events will take place, though.
The work will include renovations to both the Peter Jay Sharp Theater and the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theater, which will feature improved seating options and enhanced acoustics, along with an updated version of its marquee sign on the front facade. Inside the building, the renovations will also focus on adding multiple flexible spaces suited to performances, screenings, classes, readings, exhibitions, gatherings, and more.
In terms of the project’s funding, Symphony Space has raised 82 percent of the $45 million needed to complete the work. The city has committed $15.5 million to help with the renovation.
“Symphony Space is one of New York City’s most treasured cultural institutions, and this renovation will ensure it continues to bring world-class programming and community connection to our neighborhood for generations to come,” Upper West Side Councilmember Shaun Abreu said in a news release. “I was proud to support city funding for this project because places like Symphony Space are what make New York City’s cultural life so extraordinary.”
The timeline of the renovation is planned so Symphony Space can reopen in 2028 in celebration of its 50th anniversary.
Here are more renderings of what the renovated space will look like.
You can find out more about the renovation project — HERE.
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