EJ Thomas Performing Arts Hall

Located on the corner of University Avenue and Hill Street on The University of Akron’s campus in downtown Akron, EJ Thomas Hall annually hosts more than 400,000 people of all ages who visit for a variety of programs, activities and performances ranging from the University Forum Speaker Series, celebrations and community fundraising events to a popular Broadway Series and special attractions. EJ Thomas Hall also serves as home to The Akron Symphony Orchestra, Tuesday Musical Association, Children’s Concert Society and Akron Youth Symphony.

EJ Thomas Hall features three-level auditorium, featuring continental seating, has a seating capacity of 2,955. One of the focal points of the building is the movable 44-ton ceiling which can close off either the Flying Balcony or both the Flying Balcony and Grand Tier creating a one, two or three level auditorium. Located in Goodrich Lobby and weighing in excess of 40 tons are the 27 chrome Witzman Counterweights which balance the ceiling in the house and are computer controlled. The configuration of the counterweights determines the position of the ceiling in the house. The entire transformation takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. The theatre has the ability of being used in its legitimate theatre capacity or converted into a symphony hall with the erection of an orchestra shell.

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