Walnut Street Theatre

The Walnut Street Theatre renovation is only the fifth restoration in the historic landmark’s storied history — the oldest operating theater in the United States, established in 1808. The interior phase of this renovation involved removing all seating from the auditorium, refinishing its floors, and installing new seating. Enhanced sightlines from the private boxes to the stage were achieved by reframing and plastering the ceilings on the lower mezzanine level. INTECH constructed a scaffold dance floor up to the 30-foot dome ceilings to update lighting, HVAC systems, and refinish the plaster ceilings. Carpets in the lobbies and auditorium walkways have been replaced, and almost all theater lighting has been upgraded with new controls, allowing for adjustable lighting temperatures. Additionally, an existing hydraulic stage pit lift was replaced to accommodate productions. Adjacent to the auditorium and lobbies is The Walnut Street Theatre’s office tower, which was also renovated. The building’s exterior, exposed on all four sides, required addressing cracks and leaks and applying a fresh coat of paint to protect against the elements for years to come.