Does a single building in Brooklyn, New York, encapsulate the vibrant spirit of the performing arts, historical significance, and architectural grandeur? The Peter Jay Sharp Building, home to the Brooklyn Academy of Music, stands as a testament to the enduring power of culture and its ability to transform a community.
Nestled at 30 Lafayette Avenue in the heart of Brooklyn, the Peter Jay Sharp Building is more than just a performance venue; it's a historic landmark that has witnessed and contributed to the borough's cultural evolution. The building, a magnificent structure designed by architects Herts and Tallant, has become synonymous with the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), a beacon of international performing arts and film. Originally founded in 1861, BAM was revitalized in 1967 under the visionary leadership of Harvey Lichtenstein. Since then, BAM has steadily grown into a thriving urban arts center, drawing audiences from across the city and beyond.
The Peter Jay Sharp Building, a cornerstone of BAM, is a multifaceted space that seamlessly integrates various artistic disciplines. Constructed in 1908, it houses the prestigious Howard Gilman Opera House, the BAM Rose Cinemas, and the dynamic Adam Space/BAMcaf. Kiosks are conveniently located within the lobby of the Peter Jay Sharp Building and the Harvey Theater, offering services during mainstage performances. Furthermore, the Lepercq Space, once a ballroom, now serves as a versatile venue for events, encompassing the BAMcaf, along with the Hillman Attic Studio, another flexible space used for rehearsals and presentations. For those planning to attend a performance, parking can be challenging in New York City. It's advisable to secure parking in advance, especially when visiting the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Peter Jay Sharp Building |
| Location | 30 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217 |
| Architects | Herts and Tallant |
| Year Built | 1908 |
| Major Tenants/Venues |
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| Key Features |
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| Entrance Location | St Felix Street, between Lafayette Avenue and Hanson Place |
| Additional Venues |
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| Bazaar Schedule (DanceAfrica Bazaar) |
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For further information, you can visit the official BAM website here.
The Howard Gilman Opera House, a cornerstone of the Peter Jay Sharp Building, stands as a testament to the dedication to the performing arts, featuring two balconies and an impressive seating capacity of 2,200. Its stage is a haven for a vast array of performances, from opera and ballet to contemporary dance and theater productions. The design of the opera house and the careful selection of performances have cemented its status as a leading cultural destination in New York City.
The story of the Peter Jay Sharp Building is intertwined with the history of the Brooklyn Academy of Music itself. After the original BAM building on Montague Street was destroyed by fire in 1903, Brooklyn Borough President Martin W. Littleton spearheaded the effort to find a new home for the academy. This drive, with the support of prominent Brooklyn residents, led to the commissioning of Herts and Tallant to design a new building that would be both massive and adaptable. The result was the Peter Jay Sharp Building, a structure that has since evolved with the times, accommodating the ever-changing needs of the performing arts.
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Beyond its main performance venues, the Peter Jay Sharp Building provides a variety of amenities, including the BAMcaf, and the BAM Box Office. The building's administrative offices also reside within the building, providing support for the operations of the entire institution. The entrance to the Peter Jay Sharp Building is located on St. Felix Street, between Lafayette Avenue and Hanson Place, welcoming guests to experience world-class performances. The adjacent BAM Fisher, a new facility opened in September 2012 at 321 Ashland Place, further expands BAMs capacity to present diverse and innovative works, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability by aiming for LEED Gold certification. The BAMart program, hosted by the Brooklyn Academy of Music, presents exhibitions of contemporary art, further broadening the institution's artistic scope. For those looking for an evening of entertainment, tickets start at $35, offering accessibility to a diverse range of performances at 30 Lafayette Avenue.
For those planning to attend events, it's important to note that the DanceAfrica Bazaar, a significant cultural event, often takes place at the Peter Jay Sharp Building. The schedule for the bazaar, typically held on weekends, includes setup and vehicle vacate times. Parking restrictions apply during these events, necessitating that all cars vacate the bazaar area at the specified time. The exact dates and times can vary, so it's always best to confirm the schedule and parking arrangements prior to visiting.
The Peter Jay Sharp Building, with its rich history and commitment to the arts, continues to be a vital part of Brooklyn's cultural landscape. From its grand opera house to its more intimate spaces like the BAMcaf and Adam Space, the building offers a diverse range of experiences for audiences of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned theater-goer or a first-time visitor, a visit to the Peter Jay Sharp Building is an opportunity to witness the power and the beauty of the performing arts and to experience a piece of Brooklyn's vibrant history.
The Brooklyn Academy of Music, known to many simply as BAM, is more than just a venue; it is a cultural institution that is integral to the fabric of Brooklyn. Founded in 1861, it arose in response to the growing demand for entertainment within the expanding and diversifying population of Brooklyn. BAM's evolution over the years has mirrored Brooklyn's own transformation, providing a space for artistic expression and cultural exchange. For parking and additional information, you can check Brooklyn Academy of Music, 651 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217.
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