The Egg, Albany’s iconic performing arts center nestled within the Empire State Plaza, is set to undergo a transformative $19.5 million renovation beginning July 1. This ambitious project, a collaboration between The Egg and the New York State Office of General Services (OGS), aims to modernize the venue while preserving its distinctive architectural essence. Construction is slated to be completed early 2026.
The Egg is an unmistakable feature of Albany’s skyline, celebrated for its futuristic design and structural ingenuity. Completed in 1978 after 12 years of construction, the building’s curved form appears to float above the Empire State Plaza, balanced atop a stem-like pedestal. Designed by Wallace Harrison, the structure combines functionality with sculptural elegance, symbolizing the marriage of art and innovation. The reinforced concrete shell creates an acoustically superior environment, while its seamless integration with the plaza beneath highlights its role as a cultural centerpiece. The Egg’s design remains a striking example of mid-20th-century modernism.
The planned enhancements are comprehensive, encompassing the replacement of seating, carpeting, and lighting throughout the entire building. A significant upgrade will be the transition to a state-of-the-art, fully LED automated lighting system, designed to support complex productions. Accessibility improvements will include expanded accessible seating sections and restrooms in both the 1,000-seat Kitty Carlisle Hart Theater and the 450-seat Lewis A. Swyer Theater, along with the incorporation of an induction loop assistive listening system.
OGS Commissioner Jeanette Moy emphasizes the project’s commitment to inclusivity. “OGS is proud to help transform one of the Capital Region’s most iconic performing arts centers, The Egg, into a modern, safe, and more accessible facility at the Empire State Plaza,” says Moy. “This capital project will revive and renovate all areas of The Egg, covering everything from seating to lighting while prioritizing ADA compliance so that everyone is welcome and able to enjoy all the performances and events presented there for generations to come.”
Diane Eber, The Egg’s executive director, reflects on the venue’s legacy and future, noting, “The Egg is thrilled to embark on this transformative moment, which offers a unique opportunity to reflect on our storied past as we shape an even brighter future. These essential upgrades have been meticulously planned over many years to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the performing arts industry, while staying true to the venue’s rich legacy,” she says. “We remain deeply committed to preserving what generations have cherished about The Egg. These upgrades are designed to enhance your experience, not reinvent it, and will ensure that we can endure for decades to come.”
As the renovation necessitates a temporary pause in public programming, The Egg has curated a vibrant lineup of performances leading up to its closure. Music enthusiasts can look forward to Los Lobos (Disconnected) on March 5. Comedy fans will be treated to Finnish comedian Ismo Mikael Leikola’s “Woo Hoo! World Tour” on February 13, and a performance by Kathy Griffin on March 29. Additionally, the Grand Kyiv Ballet will present “Swan Lake” on February 16.
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This article appears in January 2025.
