The complex is designed for performances in a variety of genres: ballet and opera, contemporary dance, concerts, Broadway performances, etc. The bizarre shape of the "shells", as if consisting of many arched structures, creates a unique acoustic environment. The two main volumes house the Muriel Kaufman Theater with 1,800 seats and the Helzberg Hall with 1,600 seats. The halls are equipped with state-of-the-art technology: for example, monitors are mounted in the backs of the spectator's chairs, where you can read the translation of the libretto.
The main, southwest façade is a sloping glass curtain wall connected to the partially glazed roof by steel cables. Its height is almost 20 m, and its width is more than 100 m. Through it, a giant atrium-foyer, located between two "shells", is illuminated. Several tiers of rounded balconies are facing here, from where you can get to different levels of the mezzanine, and enjoy the view of the city during intermissions. Extensive stage boxes are located in the opposite part of the atrium, that is, directly inside the "sinks".
In addition to two halls (the total area of the building is about 26.5 thousand m2), the complex includes a terrace with an area of 10 thousand m2 for open-air performances.
The official opening of the Kaufman Center is scheduled for September this year.
N. K.
