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Of all the performing arts, it's music for which Philadelphia is most renowned and the Philadelphia Orchestra of which its residents are most proud. Though the Orchestra has undergone some financial hardships in recent years, the hope is it can rebound and regain its place among the world's elite. The city also serves as a major stop for touring productions of shows from A Chorus Line to Spring Awakening, and the local theater scene, which supports more than two dozen regional and local companies, is thriving.
Since the opening of the Kimmel Center in 2001, Philadelphia has enjoyed an embarrassment of riches when it comes to performance space. The Academy of Music, the Philadelphia Orchestra's previous home, remains open in all its finery; the Annenberg and Painted Bride house everything from theater to performance art; and both the Mann Center and the Susquehanna Bank Center remain premier outdoor amphitheaters.
Classical music in Philadelphia begins with the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra, which, under music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, has kept its remarkable pedigree. But there is also the Chamber Orchestra, which is also housed in the glorious Kimmel Center; the venerable Philly Pops; and the very talented students of the Curtis Institute, to round out the bill.
Music director Michael Krajewski leads an orchestra of local musicians in programs that swing from Broadway to big band, or from ragtime to rock and roll, with ease. They perform at the Kimmel Center, as well as at other local venues, from October to May.
Founded in 1809, this is the oldest English-language theater in continuous use in the United States. The schedule includes musicals, comedies, and dramas in a lovely 1,052-seat auditorium where almost every seat is a good one. Smaller stages showcase workshop productions of new plays, and are rented by other theater companies.
In the days leading up to Independence Day (July 4), Welcome America! highlights Philly's history with patriotic happenings, from a massive block party on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to free museum access and historical tours. It all culminates with a concert and fireworks extravaganza held on the Parkway; past performers have included Hall and Oates, John Legend, and Sheryl Crow.
Philly's primary arena for big rock concerts on par with Bruce Springsteen and Beyoncé, the Wells Fargo is also home to the city's 76ers (NBA) and Flyers (NHL). Regular calendar events also include monster truck shows, professional wrestling, and circus shows.
Under founding artistic directors Blanka and Jiri Zizka, the Wilma has gained favorable critical notices for innovative presentations of American and European drama. Its season runs from September to June.
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