Symphony Space

About Symphony Space Symphony Space is a performing arts center located at the southwest corner of Broadway and 95th Street in New York City. It was founded on the belief that the arts have the power to unite people, transcend barriers, and celebrate both commonalities and differences. Through its adventurous and impactful programming, commissions, and conversations, Symphony Space continues to uphold its guiding principles, creating memorable experiences that leverage the power of the arts to engage and inspire audiences. ### History The history of Symphony Space can be traced back to 1915 when Vincent Astor invested $750,000 to create the Astor Market at the site. However, the market was short-lived and closed within two years. In 1917, Thomas J. Healy purchased the building, transforming the Broadway level into the Crystal Palace Skating Rink and the basement into the Sunken Gardens restaurant. The skating rink closed in 1918 due to a wartime ammonia shortage, which was essential for making ice. In June 1918, the Symphony Theatre was born, featuring a patriotic tableau with a live orchestra. By 1931, the basement space under the Symphony Theatre opened as the Thalia Theatre, named after the muse of comedy and idyllic poetry. The Thalia became an iconic venue for movie buffs, known for showing Hollywood revivals, classics, and foreign films. Notable patrons included Peter Bogdanovich, Martin Scorsese, and Woody Allen, who featured the theatre in his film "Annie Hall." The Symphony Theatre went dark in 1970 during an economic downturn, occasionally renting out for boxing and wrestling events. However, in January 1978, the conductor Allan Miller and playwright Isaiah Sheffer rented the dilapidated theatre for "Wall to Wall Bach," a free 12-hour music festival. The event's success led to the leasing of the building and its transformation into a permanent cultural venue. ### Milestones - **1981**: Bloomsday on Broadway and the Global Arts Education Program began. - **1985**: The first Selected Shorts, a literary series, was created. - **1993**: The All Write Adult Literacy Program was initiated. - **1996**: After years of litigation, Symphony Space was awarded permanent ownership of the theatre. - **2000**: A $13 million renovation was completed, integrating the Thalia and establishing an endowment. - **2006**: Isaiah Sheffer, the founding artistic director, passed away. - **2015**: The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts presented an exhibition on Symphony Space's history. - **2018**: Symphony Space celebrated its 40th anniversary. Symphony Space continues to serve as a cultural hub, offering a diverse range of programs including music concerts, literary events, film screenings, comedy shows, talks, and children’s programs. Its mission, vision, and values are deeply rooted in the belief that the arts are essential to community life and personal growth. The organization also actively engages with the community through various education programs and partnerships. For more information or inquiries, visitors are encouraged to contact Symphony Space directly.