watch a video tour of Central Park SummerStage's planned upgrades

SummerStage in Central Park is getting a $5 million upgrade before reopening for its 2019 season and, today, the City Parks Foundation shared a video virtual tour of what it will look like post-renovation. It shows some of the anticipated changes, which include a new stage, a new sound system, increased lighting, LED screens, new concession areas, raised bleacher seating throughout, additional bathrooms, and upgraded backstage accommodations. Watch the video below.

Details of the renovation include:

Stage canopy will increase by 20% in diameter and foundational support will be reinforced to allow for greater weight load of production elements.
New stage will include front thrust, added side wings, and improved access ramps.
New LED screens on stage and at positions to the left and right of the stage.
New sound system designed by Acoustic Distinctions.
Upgraded production lighting designed by Al Crawford/Arc3Design.
Upgraded artist dressing rooms.
Enhanced backstage patio area for artists and guests.
Relocating pedestrian circulation around the perimeter, removing pathways that currently cross in front of audiences and disturb viewing.
Bleacher seating for up to 880 will be raised 3 ft. above ground to improve sightlines over crowds standing on the main field. Ground seating with chairs can be added for up to 1900.
Upgraded VIP area at center of the house with increased capacity for 160, covered bar area, air conditioned bathrooms, and new viewing balcony for 80. Adjacent VIP-only bleacher seating can be available for up to 260.
Upgraded VIP seating with direct sight lines at stage left for 50 under covered area and additional standing room for 30 on raised platform; plus backstage bar, seating area, and air conditioned bathrooms.
New raised, covered artist guest viewing platform for up to 150 at stage right with direct sight lines and air conditioned bathrooms.
Additional bathrooms and ADA access throughout.
Enhanced landscape and architectural lighting, pathway and egress definition.
New concession areas with high quality, accessibly-priced choices.

City Parks Foundation Executive Director Heather Lubov says, “We are thrilled to unveil our new venue for our 2019 season and are excited to be ushering in a new era of City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage with a venue that has been planned holistically, one that enhances both the audience’s and the artists’ experience. SummerStage has been presenting well-known and emerging artists – free of charge – for more than 30 years. We remain committed to providing all New Yorkers with world-class live performances in the most welcoming and contemporary setting possible, and look forward to continuing to make memories at SummerStage for many years to come.”