David H Koch Theater

The David H. Koch Theater, originally known as the New York State Theater, is a prominent performing arts venue located in New York City. The theater was constructed with financial support from the State of New York to contribute to the cultural offerings of the 1964-1965 World's Fair. Designed by the esteemed architect Philip Johnson, the theater officially opened its doors on April 23, 1964. Following the completion of the World's Fair, the ownership of the theater was transferred from the state to the City of New York. The David H. Koch Theater has been the residence of the New York City Ballet, one of the world's leading dance companies, since its inception. The theater also served as the former home of the New York City Opera. In its early years, the Music Theater of Lincoln Center was another key tenant, with Richard Rodgers as its president. During this period, the theater was known for staging revivals of classic Broadway musicals, including "The King and I," "Carousel," "Annie Get Your Gun," "Show Boat," and "South Pacific," often featuring the original stars of these productions. In July 2008, the theater received a significant philanthropic contribution from David H. Koch, who pledged $100 million over a decade to fund renovations and establish an operating and maintenance endowment. In recognition of this generous donation, the theater was renamed the David H. Koch Theater at a special gala held by the New York City Ballet on November 25 of that year. The David H. Koch Theater is part of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a renowned cultural institution that serves as a premier presenter of artistic programming, a national leader in arts education and community relations, and the manager of the Lincoln Center campus. The theater not only hosts the New York City Ballet but also welcomes other prestigious dance companies such as Paul Taylor American Modern Dance, The Joyce Theater Foundation, American Ballet Theatre, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, contributing to New York City's status as a global center for the performing arts.