Eastman Theatre was established in 1922 by George Eastman. He partnered with University of Rochester President Rush Rhees to create the Eastman School of Music, which included Eastman Theatre as a student performance space and as the home of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
The theater is also home to Gateways Music Festival held every-other year in August, and is the premier venue for Rochester International Jazz Festival each June. There is always music flowing through the theatre!
Day Trips Around Rochester, New York
Fun facts about Eastman Theatre
In 1922, the theater included the largest theater organ in the nation at the time and the latest in electrical technology and mechanical engineering with the world’s largest marquee stretching 367 feet. source
Painter Maxfield Parrish provided his original masterpiece Interlude (relocated to the University of Rochester’s Memorial Art Gallery). source
Kodak Hall features a majestic chandelier, containing 20,000 individual pieces of crystal from Italy and the Czech Republic. source
There is a glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly hanging in Wolk Atrium, located between Kodak Hall in Eastman Theatre and Hatch Recital Hall.
The three main stages at Eastman Theatre
Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre
Housing 2,326 seats, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre is the principal concert hall for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as well as the Eastman School of Music’s larger ensembles and annual fully staged Eastman Opera Theatre productions. view events
Kilbourn Hall
Three stories high and decorated in the Venetian Renaissance style, the 444-seat hall is renowned for its remarkable beauty, pure acoustics, and excellent sight lines. Considered by many to be one of the finest chamber music halls in the world.
Hatch Recital Hall
With 222 seats, Hatch Hall is an ideal size for solo instrumental, chamber, and vocal music. Along with its elegant appearance and outstanding acoustics, the hall boasts state-of-the-art acoustical and multimedia technology.
Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
When you think Nutcracker, Gala Holiday Pops, and classical music you think of the RPO. But Ghostbusters? Final Fantasy? Harry Potter? Star Wars? That’s the RPO as well! In addition, there are special guests that perform with the RPO.
View schedule of RPO Events (including free community events)
Listen to re-broadcasts of the current season on Classic 91.5
Eastman School of Music
The School presents more than 700 performances and showcase recitals each year. Most of these events are free and open to the public, though some are ticketed. Eastman School of Music also provides concerts via live-stream, perfect for those cold, winter nights!
View schedule of Eastman School of Music live-stream events and all other events
Eastman School of Music on YouTube
I love to listen to music and in listening I’ve come to think of it as a necessary part of life. There are no drawbacks to music, you can’t have too much of it.
George Eastman
Explore Eastman Theatre’s Extraordinary Detail
More information about Eastman Theatre
Find events, seating charts, parking details, box office information and more on eastmantheatre.org.
You may also enjoy:
The George Eastman Museum is a beautiful tribute to his life & legacy, and is the world’s oldest photography museum with one of the oldest film archives.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a show on stage or screen. Experience diverse artistic expression, from Broadway productions to classic movies.
Your Rochester Date Guide for Spending Quality Time Together, Day or Night
Whether it’s your first date or 50th anniversary, trying various activities with your partner is a great way to shake up your routine.
2024 CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival: Things to Do Nearby
Most 2024 CGI Rochester International Jazz Fest performances begin in the early-evening leaving your days free to explore the Rochester area.
note: descriptions of the halls are simplified, though nearly verbatim from the Eastman Theatre website
What do you enjoy most about Eastman Theatre?
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People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
