Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Academy of Music is the oldest opera house in the United States still used for its original purpose. Opened in 1857, it is a National Historic Landmark.
The auditorium is modeled after La Scala in Milan, featuring a lavish interior with a crystal chandelier, red velvet seats, and ornate gold leaf detailing. It is known as the 'Grand Old Lady of Locust Street'.
The Academy is the home of the Philadelphia Ballet and Opera Philadelphia. It also hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other cultural events.
The hall is renowned for its excellent acoustics, which have been praised by conductors and musicians for over a century. It provides an intimate and historic setting for performances.