David Geffen Hall reimagined
photo via workinginconcert.info

Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall to undergo renovations

Lincoln Center and the New York Philharmonic have unveiled new plans to renovate Manhattan concert hall David Geffen Hall. The work, which is to begin in May of 2022, is set to include a reduction in capacity from 2700 to 2200, the stage being moved forward, improved sightlines, a larger lobby, additional performance spaces, patron lounges, and restrooms, new food and drink options, and more. Check out a couple of renderings of the re-imagined space in the gallery above.

“David Geffen Hall will now sound and feel intimate and connected,” a letter from the presidents and CEOs of Lincoln Center President and New York Philharmonic, Henry Timms and Deborah Borda, reads. “We are moving the stage forward, wrapping the audience around the orchestra, reducing the number of seats, and improving sightlines in every part of the hall. The environment will be vibrant, warm, and welcoming — with terrific acoustics.”

Plans are for the hall to close twice during the renovation process: from May through October of 2022, and from May of 2023 through February of 2024. During the second closure, the orchestra will perform Carnegie Hall, New York City Center, and other spaces.

As the New York Times points out, logistical problems delayed a previous planned renovation of the hall, which was to have started this year.