Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts
Hartford, CT, US / CT
Location Description
The Bushnell was built in 1930 by Dotha Bushnell Hillyer as a "living memorial" to her father, the Reverend Dr. Horace Bushnell (1802–1876), a Hartford minister, theologian, philosopher and civic leader. Mortensen Hall[edit] The original theater building, Mortensen Hall, seats 2800 and was designed by the architectural firm of Corbett, Harrison and MacMurray, designers of New York's Radio City Music Hall. It was built with a traditional Georgian Revival exterior and rich Art Deco interior. Named in honor of William H. Mortensen, The Bushnell's first managing director, Mortensen Hall is one of the world's greatest examples of the Art Deco style. Ancient images of the sun, moon and stars -symbolizing light, knowledge, constancy and eternity- abound in The Bushnell's beautiful main hall. Drama, the largest hand-painted ceiling mural of its type in the United States, is suspended from the Hall's roof by numerous metal supports. Painted by Barry Faulkner, the painting cost $50,000 to create in 1929. The Maxwell M. and Ruth R. Belding Theater[edit] This 906-seat theater, is named in honor of long -time trustee, Maxwell Belding and his family. A beautiful, state-of-the-art theater designed by Wilson, Butler, Lodge, "The Belding" was opened in 2002. The ceiling mural, created by Evergreen Studios of New York City, provides a dazzling modern interpretation of the original Hall's sun, moon, and stars Art Deco motifs. The space houses a cafe, a gift shop, classroom space and more rest rooms. In addition, there are private dining and entertainment suites and reception spaces. The Hartford Symphony Orchestra performs at the center on a regular basis.
Location Category
- AUDITORIUMS / THEATERS - [general]
- AUDITORIUMS / THEATERS - Arts Centers / Stages
- AUDITORIUMS / THEATERS - Concert Halls
Architecture Style
- Art Deco
