An Orlando theater has been named as one of the most beautiful theaters in the world, according to a popular American magazine.
Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts was named one of the 11 most beautiful theaters in the world by Architectural Digest, which recognizes excellence in interior design, landscaping, and other architectural features.
Opened in January 2022, Steinmetz Hall is one of only three U.S. venues that made the list. The others, which are both located in California, were the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.
Steinmetz Hall is billed as one of the most acoustically advanced theaters in the world, with an official sound rating of N1, which is the lowest level at which humans can detect sound. It’s one of a few theaters in the world that is able to transform its shape, seating, and sound to accommodate a variety of performances and events. The hall features four seating levels and, depending on the configuration, is capable of seating between 1,597 and 1,741 people.
“To be recognized among these world-renowned theaters was a goal of ours starting in 2003,” said Kathy Ramsberger, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Dr. Phillips Center. “The perseverance and commitment by our board of directors, colleagues, donors, design and construction teams, partners, volunteers and guests to create Steinmetz Hall was an incredible achievement and we’re thrilled to be acknowledged by such an authority in the design field.”
To create its list, Architectural Digest selected eleven performance venues from around the world for their “unique designs, creative innovations, and stunning appearances.” The complete list features venues that are used for a variety of purposes, including opera shows, concerts, and film screening. Some of the venues are centuries old, while others, like Steinmetz, were erected in the past decade.
“Aside from their astounding aesthetics, there is no singular element that defines or unites the most beautiful theaters in the world,” reads the article.
The accolade joins several others that the City Beautiful has received in recent months.
Earlier this year, Orlando was named as the best city for remote work, the best city in which to host meetings and events, and the best large city in which to start a business.
To read the complete list of venues that made Architectural Digest’s list, visit The 11 Most Beautiful Theaters in the World webpage.