STUART WEITZMAN THEATRE

Design rendering of the Annenberg Center plaza during the daytime

*Representative architectural rendering, subject to change.

At the heart of Penn’s campus, the Weitzman Theatre will be a distinctly visible, modern, flexible performance space extending onto the Annenberg Center Plaza.

The cornerstone project in a planned multi-phase renovation and expansion of the Annenberg Center Complex, the theatre is named through a transformative gift from Penn alumnus Stuart Weitzman and will embrace a variety of events and performances across artistic genres.

Design rendering of the multi-purpose space in side stage configuration

As a flexible space with multiple configurations and the ability to open a wall for indoor/outdoor performances, the Weitzman Theatre will serve as an extraordinary venue for a variety of events, such as:

Penn Music Department groups, such as Penn Chorale or Penn Arab Music Ensemble
Penn student dance troupes like Penn Dhamaka and Onda Latina
Comedy, a cappella, slam poetry and student performing arts showcase performances
Workshops, readings, and staging of world premiere theatre pieces
Intimate professional performances across jazz, chamber music and contemporary music
Community programming, including Penn Live Arts' Philadelphia Children’s Festival

“It’s no exaggeration to say that this gift will change everything. This modern jewel of a space right in the center of campus will be home to professional and student artists alike. I envision the theater in constant use from the moment its doors open, serving students, faculty, Philadelphia area residents, and Penn alumni, families, and friends.”
– Christopher A. Gruits, PLA Executive & Artistic Director

Design rendering of the multi-purpose space in end stage configuration

“I am thrilled on so many levels to be supporting this new project. The performing arts have always been an essential element of the Penn experience. So many high-profile alumni have gotten their start at Penn: John Legend, Marc Platt, Harold Prince, Candace Bergen…the list goes on. This new theatre will convey, in a very tangible way, to student and professional performers alike, that their craft is valued, supported, and nurtured by Penn.”
– Stuart Weitzman, W’63

Stuart Weitzman is one of the most recognizable names in luxury designer footwear, who founded his eponymous company in 1986. Since stepping down from an active role in business, Weitzman has pursued myriad interests. Notably, he co-produced the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations. At the University of Pennsylvania, Stuart Weitzman’s philanthropy is further reflected in the Weitzman School of Design, Weitzman Hall, and The Weitzman Speaker Series on High Impact Philanthropy. Elsewhere in Philadelphia, he has also supported The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History.

READ STUART WEITZMAN THEATRE ANNOUNCEMENT

*All images are representative architectural renderings and subject to change.