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Eastman Theatre construction photographs

 Collection
Identifier: UA166

Biographical/Historical note

Since its opening in 1922, the Eastman Theatre has always been Rochester's preeminent performance space. Throughout its history, Eastman students have frequently shared the stage with some of the world's greatest musicians: conductors Leonard Slatkin, Sir Georg Solti, and Christoph von Dohnányi; composers Igor Stravinsky, Krzysztof Penderecki, and John Williams; and jazz musicians Bob Brookmeyer, Stan Getz, and Keith Jarrett, to name only a few. All Eastman students have the opportunity to perform in this historic venue, often alongside visiting artists, and to attend frequent performances by notable guest musicians and ensembles.

The magnificent 3,094-seat theatre was built by George Eastman as a center for music, dance, and silent film with orchestral and organ accompaniment. An architectural gem, its opulent décor reflects the taste and elegance of the 1920s. Today, it is the primary concert hall for the Eastman School's larger ensembles, including its orchestras, wind ensembles, jazz ensembles, and chorale. The Eastman Opera Theatre presents fully staged operatic productions in the Theatre each spring. It also is the principal hall for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and is used periodically throughout the year by a variety of community organizations for concerts, lectures, and other special events.

Scope and Contents note

This collection is comprised of mostly photographs of the different stages of construction of the Eastman Theatre and images of some of the workers who helped build it. It also contains the Apprentice Card of Frank Whalen, timekeeper for the International Association of Bridge and Structural Iron Workers, Local Union No. 33 of Rochester, NY.

Creator

Dates

  • Creation: 1919-1922

Language of Materials

English

Extent

1 box(es)

Restrictions on Access

For access to this collection, please contact the University of Rochester Archives (archives@library.rochester.edu) at least two business days prior to your planned visit.

Please note: Some materials may be restricted or require permission for use.

Restrictions on Use

To request reproductions or permission to publish materials from the collection, please contact the University of Rochester Archives (archives@library.rochester.edu). Researchers may be responsible for determining any copyright questions.

Immediate Source of Acquisition note

Given to the Department of Rare Books, Special Collections and Preservation by Brian and Peggy Fleming (daughter of Frank Whalen) in January, 2004.

Preferred Citation

[Item title, item date], Eastman Theatre Construction Photographs, UA166, Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation, River Campus Libraries, University of Rochester

Title
Eastman Theatre construction photographs
Author
Finding aid prepared by Rare Books and Special Collections staff
Date
undated
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Library Details

Part of the University of Rochester Archives Library

Contact:
Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation
River Campus Libraries, University of Rochester
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd.
Rochester New York 14627-0055 USA