Penn Live Arts announced a $5 million gift to support the construction of a new theater in its Student Performing Arts Center on Tuesday.
The donation, made by 1971 College graduate Edward W. Kane and his wife Marty Wallace, will go towards a facility named the “Edward W. Kane Theatre.” According to Penn Today, the theater will seat 325 people and feature an orchestra pit, advanced fly tower, and deep stage design.
Penn President Larry Jameson said that the donation is a “significant contribution” to Penn’s efforts to expand its campus arts in an interview with Penn Today.
“The performing arts are an integral part of the human experience, and at Penn we seek for them to play an even greater role in the lives of our students and for our broader community,” Jameson said to Penn Today. “Ed and Marty’s support ensures that this cornerstone of student and cultural life, paired with artistic exploration, will continue to grow and flourish, and I am deeply grateful for their generosity.”
Executive and Artistic Director of Penn Live Arts Christoper Gruits said that the gift would have a positive effect on students involved in performing arts, or nearly 25% of Penn’s student body, according to Penn Today.
“Enabling students to rehearse and perform in spaces built specifically for their craft, whether dance or musical theatre — it’s hard to understate that impact,” Gruits told Penn Today. “We are tremendously thankful to Ed and Marty, who understand that students benefit from participation in the performing arts regardless of their major and that this supports their creativity and leadership more broadly.”
Former Penn President Amy Gutmann announced the University’s plans for the building in August 2021, with a projected construction cost of $31 million. In June 2023, following a meeting of the University Board of Trustees, the amount increased to $75 million.
“We are thrilled to be undertaking this extraordinarily exciting project at Penn in support of the thousands of students avidly involved in the performing arts and the dozens and dozens of thriving, talented student performing arts groups on campus,” Gutmann said to Penn Today in 2021.
RELATED:
Penn moves forward with design for new Student Performing Arts Center
Gutmann announces plans for a new $31 million student-focused performing arts center
The facility is currently under construction with an anticipated opening in early 2027. The design for the 37,300 square feet building includes two theaters, five rehearsal studios, and teaching and practice spaces.
The center will be located at 33rd Street and Woodland Walk, between Lauder and Hill College Houses.
