(ROCHESTER, NY) - Today Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) visited a Gala Holiday Pops performance by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) to announce a new $1,000,000 state grant he secured for upgrades to Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, located at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music. Senator Cooney explained that this funding would go towards renovations at the theatre, their first major capital project since 2009. 

“Kodak Hall has been the centerpiece of the arts and culture scene in Rochester and a driver of economic growth downtown for over a century,” said Senator Cooney. “From RPO concerts and student performances to the Rochester International Jazz Fest, this is a storied venue that serves as an intersection of world-class productions for all Rochesterians and visitors to enjoy. I want to ensure this special venue continues to provide a high-quality experience for the next 100 years.” 

“The ties binding the RPO and Eastman Theatre reach back to the orchestra’s inaugural concert presented here in 1923,” said Curt Long, RPO’s President and CEO. "The theater has remained RPO’s home for more than 100 years. I want to thank Senator Cooney for his help in securing this incredible gift which will allow us and other users of Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre to deliver an even better experience to our audiences.”

“The Eastman School of Music is grateful to Senator Cooney for this generous gift,” said Kate Sheeran, Eastman's Joan and Martin Messinger Dean. “By enhancing the beautiful and historic space that is Kodak Hall, we can ensure that the space is equipped with technology that can best accommodate the many varied performances by our students, faculty, guest artists, and community partners. Installing a new projector, new audio equipment, and improved lighting will benefit the audience's experience just as much as the musicians’.”

Senator Cooney explained that the grant would be used for upgrades in three key areas needed for the theatre to fully address the needs of students and performers. First, a new audio console will enable in-hall mixing, allowing large-scale performances, like the RPO, increased control over live sound production and eliminating costs associated with renting equipment. 

Second, a new permanent video projection system will allow the theatre to diversify their programming. The current projector is not permanent, making the rental of equipment necessary and increasing staff time and costs for film projects, graduation ceremonies, and presentations that include visual media. A permanent system will reduce costs and create a more seamless experience at the theatre. 

Lastly, Senator Cooney explained that the grant would also be used to replace Kodak Hall’s current lighting system with LEDs to allow them to accommodate more sophisticated productions. The current lighting system is outdated. An LED system will have a longer lifespan and consume less energy, lowering costs in the long run.  

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