A Longstanding Relationship

Completed in multiple phases over several years, we managed the modernization and renovation the renowned 1857 historic Philadelphia landmark, The Academy of Music. Since the completion of the initial project, we have maintained our strong relationship with the Academy. We have since provided additional construction services including:

• refurbishing three levels of the balcony
• upgrading the fire alarm and security systems
• revising the stage loading entrance
• adding lifting points in artistic plaster ceiling

Modernizing a Historic Landmark

The auditorium’s 80ft domed plaster ceiling with intricate murals was being jeopardized due to the structural integrity of the trusses above. Ninety foot free-spanning steel trusses were needled into the space directly above the two-inch thick plaster ceiling to stabilize the structure and protect the artwork.

The stage area was also renovated and included the reconstruction of the stagehouse foundation. This required underpinning and the hand excavation of 1,500cy of earth. The stage area was reconstructed and new structural members installed.

Next, the complete upper stagehouse was removed, including the wood trusses and grid as well as the original sand bag rigging system. New steel columns and new 12ft deep, 45,000lb trusses were installed. This new structure supported the new stage house roof, but also enabled the installation of a new grid level 10ft higher than the previous grid with modern theater lighting and rigging systems. New linesets were installed as well as automated rigging points.

Lastly, upgrades to the mechanical and electrical systems and renovation of artist suites and dressing rooms were done.