Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts

The History

Eight resident companies and a variety of touring soloists and ensembles perform at Kimmel Cultural Campus venues.

The Philadelphia Orchestra’s need for a modern concert hall — coupled with the city’s need for a venue to serve the community and visiting artists — proved the catalyst for the Kimmel Center, which was completed in December 2001. The design team behind the stunning building included Rafael Viñoly Architects, PC; Artec Consultants, Inc. and Theatre Project Consultants.

The facility is named for sportswear manufacturer and Philadelphian Sidney Kimmel, the largest private donor.

Today, the center is part of Ensemble Arts, which encompasses the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the Academy of Music and the Miller Theater.

Resident companies include the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, PHILADANCO (Philadelphia Dance Company), The Philly POPS, the Opera Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Ballet and the Curtis Institute of Music.

One of the main stages inside the Kimmel Center is Verizon Hall — which features a red mahogany 2,500-seat interior that's shaped like a cello.   — Photo courtesy The Philly POPS

Don’t Miss

Nationally recognized and locally revered, Chef Jose Garces’ catering division provides concessions at the Kimmel Cultural Campus.

Enjoy cocktails and snacks prepared by Garces’ team at the Encore Bar at the Kimmel Center or head to Garces’ restaurant Volvér — which also calls the Kimmel home.

In addition to its larger theaters, The Kimmel Center has the SEI Innovation Studio — a 2,688 square foot black box theater —and spaces for weddings, receptions, graduations and corporate events.

Sponsoring varied series of its own, the Kimmel also runs several educational programs including the Merck Arts Education Center, which provides arts classes for area youth and adults.