Perelman Theater, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Perelman Theater is situated within The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, which opened its doors to the public on December 16, 2001. The Center, which occupies an entire city block, achieved instant prominence in the performing arts world as the new home of the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra. The Center also contains the concert performance space, Verizon Hall.

The Perelman Theater is a multi-use recital space/proscenium theater. A unique 75-foot-diameter turntable stage transforms the Perelman Theater from an intimate recital hall with outstanding acoustics to a proscenium theater with a deep stage, complete fly-loft and orchestra pit. First level theater seats maybe lowered and retracted to create flat seating for theater and cabaret, as well as for experimental performances.

This room was designed as the home for Philadelphia's Dance Company (PHILADANCO), The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, and American Theater Arts for Youth, as well as to accommodate chamber concerts by The Philadelphia Orchestra. For further versatility, the 650-seat Perelman Theater can also be configured in a number of different ways, including as a recital theater; as a flat, open stage floor for dance, and even as a flat-floor ballroom with the audience seats completely removed.

Artec provided Design and Planning services covering Auditorium Acoustics Design, Specialized Performance Equipment Systems (sound & communication systems) design and Background Noise and Vibration Control consulting for the entire Center. The architect of The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is Rafael Viñoly.