Historical Elements of the Hilton Theatre
When the Hilton Theatre was constructed in 1997, it had the unique challenge of bringing together modern convenience and old-world charm. The theater was created as the Ford Center of the Performing Arts and needed to incorporate within its design some of the original elements of two other theaters – the Apollo and the Lyric - that shared the plot side by side in earlier years. In addition, the theater needed to meet all the requirements of a modern location, including access to the physically disabled, public toilets, dressing rooms and so forth.
Through the collaboration of several top people in the business, the Hilton Theatre was created with the following unique features:
- Turn of the Century Street Facades: The Lyric Theatre had some of the most magnificent 42nd and 43rd turn of the century street facades that are being restored to their former glory.
- Key Interior Feature: The Hilton Theatre has some of the original interior features of the Apollo Theatre, including plaster elements that were carefully and lovingly removed from the original building and transported to the Hilton; the lobby which is now being used as an intermission lounge in the Hilton; an historic dome which has been set within a second one to become a centerpiece in the Hilton; and commissioned friezes to complement original designs.
Theatre Facts
- The theatre boasts 1800 seats at three seating levels – Orchestra, Dress Circle and Balcony.
- The building is wheelchair accessible.
- There are many commercial vehicle lots around the square for convenient parking.
- Shows usually run Tuesday – Saturday evenings, Saturday and Sunday matinees.
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