Inside the restored Fisher-Bennett Hall, students crowded into new screening rooms to see the movie Slaughterhouse-Five while others were treated to a dramatic recitation of the prologue to William Shakespeare's Henry V.
Just as the play says, the English and Music departments received "a kingdom for a stage" on Friday as the completion of the four-story building was formally celebrated. Formerly simply Bennett Hall, the building at the corner of 34th and Walnut streets was renamed in recognition of benefactor and College graduate Richard Fisher.
The reopening was marked by musical performances, appetizers and readings by members of the English Department. First-time visitors and veteran professors alike expressed approval with the building's redesign, which has resulted in additional teaching space and improvements to the lighting, heating and computing systems.
"I do enjoy coming here. It's comfortable, the technology is great, and there's a sense of community," English professor Heather Love said.
The building will now house the University's Cinema Studies and Creative Writing programs in addition to the English Department, reflecting increased classroom capacity. Film enthusiasts are now able to "watch the movie of their choice as they work on papers," said Cinema Studies Director Tim Corrigan, adding that the renovated building will centralize classes once dispersed throughout campus in one location.
Originally constructed in 1924, Fisher-Bennett Hall, which once housed a gymnasium and the women's student union, has long been associated with Penn's English Department. English professor Paul Hendrickson said that, in addition to the skylight, which provides natural lighting, he welcomes the building's blend of modern and historical elements.
"I don't feel they changed the character of the building," he said.
The English Language Program, which offers English as a Second Language courses, also hosted a reception for international students. ESL student Jae-Hee Cho said he is enjoying his classes in the new building.
Ensembles were also enjoying the new performance and rehearsal space, playing classical music selections.
"It's exciting to have a new home with space and equipment," said College senior Lauren Meshkov, a music major.
