Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts Breaks Ground on New Entry Plaza, Welcome Center

The new entry plaza at Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts will triple in size, creating a more gracious, spacious, garden-like entry experience.

Philadelphia, PA (October 2025) – The Mann Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia broke ground on a reimagined Entry Plaza and new Welcome Center. Designed by award-winning architecture, engineering, interior design, and planning firm EwingCole, the plaza expansion is the first significant project to stem from EwingCole’s 2021 Mann Master Plan, located in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, officials also announced a 12-year partnership between the Mann Center and Highmark Blue Shield, and a new name: Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts. The Welcome Center and Entry Plaza are scheduled to open ahead of Highmark Mann’s 2026 season, aligning with the venue’s 50th anniversary and the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations. The project represents one of Philadelphia’s largest cultural capital initiatives, reinforcing Highmark Mann’s place as a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s artistic and civic life.

The 40,000-square-foot plaza, which will be three times the size of the current entry area, introduces new amenities and a cohesive arrival experience for concertgoers, performers, and staff. It creates a more gracious, garden-like entry that enhances the first impression for guests and will provide ample space for queuing at ticketing, concessions, merchandise stands, and restrooms.

“The team’s goal is to create a clear, intuitive, and memorable arrival experience. This project will not only enhance the audience and artist experience but also ensure Highmark Mann’s continued role as a cultural anchor for Philadelphia.”

Ryan Leichtweisz, RA Principal at EwingCole

Key features of the project include:

Grand entry canopy establishing a clear, unified gateway to the venue
New Welcome Center with enclosed public space, ticketing, and guest services
Music Hall of Fame and Encore Gift Shop, showcasing archival materials and artist history
Satell Centennial Wall East, a 4,200-square-foot light-and-sound digital installation displaying cultural and historical media
Interactive digital wayfinding and installations throughout the plaza
New ticket office accessible from both inside and outside the venue gates
ADA accessibility enhancements across all entry and circulation routes
Expanded restrooms and concessions, including a permanent outdoor bar and seating areas
Integrated stormwater management and green infrastructure supporting environmental sustainability

New and expanded structures will reflect a nature-inspired wood and stone aesthetic befitting the venue’s pastoral ambiance. The project’s design improves accessibility, circulation, and comfort while maintaining the natural beauty and openness of Highmark Mann’s Fairmount Park setting.

Project partners include: JLL Philadelphia, Pennoni, Hunter Roberts Construction Group, and Crafted Action.