Our Story

One of the Philadelphia region’s leading cultural and civic assets, the Mann Center for the Performing Arts has presented world-class performing artists of diverse musical genres in Fairmount Park for decades. The original Dell, an open-air facility constructed in 1930, was a beloved venue but beset by problems, including frequent rainouts and distracting traffic noise from the nearby Schuylkill Expressway, which opened in 1958. The new venue addressed these issues and provided Philadelphians with a modern, first-class facility to enjoy music under the stars.

Built in 1976 as Philadelphia and the nation were preparing to celebrate the United States Bicentennial, this new venue with an approximate capacity of about 14,000 became the largest covered music and arts venue in Philadelphia. Just three years later, the Robin Hood Dell West was renamed the Mann Music Center in Fredric Mann’s honor, and subsequently renamed the Mann Center for the Performing Arts. The Mann has continued to host annual Philadelphia Orchestra concerts and serves more than 200,000 patrons annually through a diverse line-up of world-class artists, touring companies, and popular and contemporary musicians.

MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES

MISSION

The Mann Center for the Performing Arts – situated in historic Fairmount Park with breathtaking views of Philadelphia’s skyline –serves as one of the nation’s premier non-profit and intercultural outdoor performing arts organizations by:

• Creating, presenting, promoting, convening, and collaborating on a broad spectrum of high-quality, compelling, welcoming, and inspiring entertainment experiences in its acclaimed multi-stage campus;

• Providing leadership in arts education through innovative and high-impact, collaborative educational activities for young people throughout the Philadelphia region;

• Fulfilling the expectations of 21st-century audiences by embracing multimedia platforms;

• Being a deeply valued civic asset to everyone in the Philadelphia region, an active community stakeholder in West Philadelphia and our immediate neighborhoods, and a responsible steward of our natural campus and resources.

• Making its facilities available as a public service to other non-profit organizations.

On January 29, 1975, a model of the new Robin Hood Dell West was unveiled in the Grand Court at John Wanamaker’s department store in downtown Philadelphia. Mayor Frank Rizzo gestures to Fredric Mann (in dark glasses, on right) while Wanamaker’s president John Harrison (on left) and members of the public look on. Mann Center for the Performing Arts Archives.

Excavation of the site for the new Robin Hood Dell West in March 1975. The Catholic Total Abstinence Fountain is in the immediate background, with Memorial Hall beyond that and the Philadelphia skyline in the distance. Evening Bulletin Photograph Collection, Special Collections Research Center, Temple University Libraries.

The Robin Hood Dell West’s inaugural concert on June 14, 1976: Eugene Ormandy conducting The Philadelphia Orchestra. Photo by Joseph McLaughlin for The Philadelphia Bulletin. Special Collections Research Center, Temple University Libraries.

VISION

The Mann will be recognized as the national model and trusted curator of “must-see” performances and transformative experiences in Philadelphia and beyond.

VALUES

The Mann is committed to fostering long-standing relationships with its stakeholders—both internal and external—based on the following core values:

• Excellence – We seek to create first-class experiences that are unparalleled. We strive for exceptional quality in everything we do by always putting forth our best effort.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – We foster a community marked by openness, fairness, and equality. We value, respect, and leverage our differences, while sharing a common mission.

• Integrity – We consistently operate with unyielding honesty, honor, and transparency. We hold ourselves and each other to the highest ethical standards.

• Welcoming – We create an inclusive and friendly community, where everyone feels special. We focus attention on serving our artists, guests, donors, team members, volunteers, and students.

• Innovation – We seek transformative, cutting-edge, and unique experiences on- and off-stage. We use creativity in all we do—from programming to problem solving.

Patrons enjoying the 2019 Roots Picnic, on the Mann’s expanded Fairmount Park campus, in front of The Catholic Total Abstinence Union Fountain.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS OF THE BOARD

Christopher L. Bruner

Chair of the Board

Assurance Partner, Audit, Ernst & Young LLP

Sara Manzano-Díaz

Vice Chair of the Board

Former Executive Deputy Attorney General for Public Protection, Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Larry C. Skinner

Vice Chair of the Board

Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Conversion Technologies International, Inc.

Richard Umbrecht

Vice Chair of the Board

President, New Province Partners

Alyse Bodine

Vice Chair of the Board

Managing Partner and Global Head, Financial Officers Practice, Heidrick & Struggles

DIRECTORS

Clifton Anderson

Senior Advisor and Chief Strategist, Office of the President, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Brucie Baumstein

Community Leader

Dr. Naomi Johnson Booker

Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Global Leadership Academy

Ellen M. Cavanaugh *

Former Vice President of Support Services, PECO

Michael DiBerardinis

Former Managing Director, City of Philadelphia

William Gallagher

Financial Advisor, RBC Wealth Management

Dan Greenberg

Founder, North Broad Living Management

Mikal C. Harden

Co-founder, Juno Search Partners

Leo Helmers

Co-founder, Mereo Capital Partners

Lucinda Hudson

President, Parkside Association of Philadelphia

Justin P. Klein, Esq. * Partner, Ballard Spahr

Paul Lancaster Adams

Shareholder, Ogletree Deakins

Donald R. Braun Jr.

Treasurer of the Board

Managing Director, Bernstein Private Wealth Management

Ian Comisky, Esq

Assistant Treasurer Partner, Fox Rothschild LLP

Marc Rockford Secretary

Senior Vice President, Chief Mergers and Acquisitions Counsel, Comcast

Clifton Anderson

Assistant Secretary

Senior Advisor and Chief Strategist, Office of the President, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Catherine M. Cahill

President & CEO

Mann Center for the Performing Arts

Patricia LaRoche

CEO, Cameron & Associates 8, LLC

Gerald Lawrence

Shareholder and COO, Lowey Dannenberg PC

Toya Lawson Partner, Bridge Partners

Nicole LeVine Chief Operating Officer, PECO

Peter Madden

CEO & Chief Creative Officer, AgileCat

Jeremy Maletz

Trader, Susquehanna International Group

Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake President, Independence Blue Cross Foundation

James Mordy

Former Senior Vice President and Partner, Wellington Management Co. LLP

John A. Nixon Partner, Duane Morris LLP Prudential Fox & Roach Realtors

Matthew Panarese

Managing Director, Rockefeller Capital Management

Sharon Rankin

Docent, Philadelphia Zoo, Photographer and Community Leader

Senior Vice President, Buckeye Partners, L.P. *Life Trustees

Todd J. Russo

DIRECTORS

(continued)

Jasmine Sessoms

Senior VP of Corporate Affairs, Hilco Redevelopment Partners

Eric Sitarchuk Partner, Morgan Lewis & Bockius

Shelley Sylva

Senior Vice President, Head of Social Impact – Marketing, TD Bank

Marian Tasco

Former Councilwoman, City of Philadelphia

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Amen Brown Pennsylvania State Representative, District 190

Vincent Hughes State Senator, 7th Senatorial District

CHAIRMAN’S COUNCIL

Jeff Aldridge

David Axelrod

Brad Baer

Michael Banks

RJ Bee

Peter Bloomfield

Glenn Blumenfeld

Carlos Bradley

Rachel Branson

Isabella Bruner

Ashley Bryant

James M. Buck, III

Dr. Samantha Butts

John Devine

Mark Dichter

Joseph DiMedio

Michael Donahue

Matthew Elkes

Lou Filippone

Max Frankel

Dr. Ira Gerstman

Jane Gitomer

Mark Goodheart

William Haines

Stephen Samuel Hamilton

Richard Harris

Shane Johnson

Ken Kearns

Scott King

Kevin Kleinschmidt

William Leonard

Marlene McNamee

Lubna Mian

Elizabeth Miller

Mark Noble

Salvatore Patti

Robert Polans

Lynne Pollack

Donna Rodio

Adrian Sam

Greg Seltzer

Michael Shannon

Marciarose Shestack

Kristyn Vandegrift

Former Lawyer & Education Law Editor

Matthew Wilson Partner, Braidwell

Nanette Zakian

Former President, Hachik Distributors, Inc.

Curtis Jones, Jr. Philadelphia City Council, 4th District

Bernard Smalley

Lorraine Stanhope Hirschberg

Lori Sutliff

Rick Sutliff

Chris Tidmore

Meghan Tierney Lash

Jennifer Tintenfass

David Verdon

Brian J. Vogt

Todd White

Randi Zemsky

LIFE TRUSTEES

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Ellen M. Cavanaugh

Peter Gould

Catherine M. Cahill President & CEO

Joan Roebuck-Carter Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer

Anthony Boyd-Slade Vice President of People Operations & Chief Operating Officer

Evan Rogers General Manager

Kelly Schempp Vice President of Marketing & Chief Brand Officer

PRESIDENT & CEO

Catherine M. Cahill President & CEO

Alison Larkin Manager of Board of Director Relations and the President’s Office

HUMAN RESOURCES & ADMINISTRATION

Anthony Boyd-Slade Vice President of People Operations & Chief Operating Officer

Sarah Leu Archivist & Digital Asset Manager

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Joan Roebuck-Carter

Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer

Damaris South Head of Major Gifts & Planned Giving

Chris Rumer

Head of Corporate Relations and Business Development

Gregory Storella Director of Foundation and Institutional Giving

Sara Ryan Director of Development Events and Strategic Advancement

As of 4.30.24

Justin Klein

Megan O’Shea Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Naomi Gonzalez Chief Education, Community Engagement Officer & Vice President

Patricia Sanders Vice President of Special Projects

Toby Blumenthal Vice President of Artistic Planning & Chief Innovation Officer

Dan Muroff Principal, Mission Government Relations

Mark Vieth Senior Vice President, Cavarocchi Ruscio Dennis (Goverment Relations)

Jack McCarthy Historian

Jennie McIntyre Executive Administrative Assistant

Caroline Juelke Manager Development Operations

Carol Williams Manager of Individual Giving, Membership and Donor Relations

Austin Donat

Development Assistant and Research Analyst

Carolyn Hoehle

Development Communications Specialist

Dan Zanella Development Consultant

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Naomi Gonzalez Chief Education, Community Engagement Officer & Vice President

Joshua Brilliant Manager of Education Operations

FINANCE TEAM

Megan O’Shea Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Amanda Bowman Accounting Manager

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS TEAM

Kelly Schempp Vice President of Marketing & Chief Brand Officer

Phil Welcome Director of Creative Services

Jenna Brower Senior Manager, Digital Strategy

PROGRAMMING TEAM

Deion Payton Community Special Projects Manager

Sara Herrera Education Coordinator

Marian Jenkins Senior Accountant

Emma Perloff Staff Accountant

Shawn Hatten Videographer

Jayson Borenstein Marketing Insights Manager

Christine Reimert Devine & Partners | Public Relations

Toby Blumenthal Vice President of Artistic Planning and Chief Innovation Officer

Brandon Ehrenreich Senior Project Manager, Programming

CAMPUS TEAM

Evan Rogers General Manager

Security

John A. Krewer Manager of Venue Security Operations

Operations

Philip Gehman Assistant to the General Manager

Ian Brown Front of House Operations Manager

CAPITAL PROJECT CONSULTANTS

Megan S. Madeira Aegis Property Group

Production

Emily Stock Manager of Venue Production Operations

Shadazia Williams Production Coordinator

Private Events & Facility Rentals

Ashley Vanett Director of Private Events & Facility Rentals

Maggie Long Events and Hospitality Coordinator

Brad Baer Crafted Action | Digital Experience/ Innovation Advisor

Jordan August House Photographer

Evans Mirageas 50th Anniversary Advisor

Facilities

Jerry Bates Manager of Facility Operations

Mike Iovannoni Assistant Manager Facility Operations

Ticket Office

Nora Horning

Ticket Office Manager

Maureen Bennett

Ticket Office Treasurer

Diane Hirsch

Ticket Office Treasurer

Craig J. Schmitt RA Principal, EwingCole

MASTER PLAN

In 2021, The Mann unveiled a new campus Master Plan designed by brilliant EwingCole architects and engineers who were awarded the project after an extensive citywide search. The results are a comprehensive road map that will enhance the Mann experience in parking lots, through the entry plaza and into a state of the art venue offering the finest in guest amenities with a focus on expanded dining options and specialized donor and VIP offerings. Integrated spaces that support the Mann’s award winning Education Program will transform the venue into a comprehensive year-round campus that celebrates our diverse cultural programs.

Rendering of the Philadelphia skyline view from the proposed restaurant.

Rendering of new walkways and parking area.

Rendering of new entry area, walkways, restaurant, and Mann sign installation.

Rendering of the Mann’s entry plaza upgrades and Hillside Building Food Hall (Master Plan Phase 6 & 7).

Rendering of improvements to North Georges Hill Drive.

Rendering of Stage Left Improvements (VIP Boxes, Wine Bar).

PROGRAMMING

As one of the foremost outdoor music centers in the country, the Mann, a leading non-profit organization, has a historical legacy of artistic excellence as a world-class entertainment destination presenting premier artists in association with Live Nation Entertainment. Each summer season, renowned symphony orchestras, iconic rock stars, and the latest touring artists in indie rock, hip hop, R&B, and pop take the stage here. The Mann is the summer home of The Philadelphia Orchestra and has presented critically acclaimed performers in every decade since the 1930s. Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, the Mann hosts more than 200,000 visitors annually. Signature concert experiences are surrounded by Philadelphia’s stunning skyline and include seats beneath the Mann’s acoustically acclaimed TD Pavilion at the Mann; picnics, blankets, and music under the stars on its great lawn; and dining in Crescendo, the venue’s spectacular tented restaurant.

In 2020, the Mann Center and Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s leading live entertainment company, entered into an exclusive, multi-year booking partnership. Through this partnership, Live Nation Entertainment delivers dynamic leading touring artists, joining the Mann in investing capital resources to enhance the Mann’s guest experience through VIP opportunities, new concession options, expanded production of large experiential musical festivals, and more. In 2023, the Mann co-presented 48 concerts with Live Nation.

From 2016’s Firebird: Reimagined featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra, Grammy Award-winning South African vocal ensemble Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and larger-than-life puppets by Janni Younge of South Africa’s renowned Handspring Puppet Company. Photo by Jordan August Photography.

Ray Charles & B.B. King

Aretha Franklin’s last appearance in Philadelphia was August 26, 2017 at the Mann, her third to last public performance before her passing in 2018

James Brown The Roots

Bob Dylan

HISTORIC PROGRAMMING

PHILADELPHIA PREMIERES

• Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (1976)

• The Metropolitan Opera (1978)

• American Ballet Theatre with Mikhail Baryshnikov (1979)

• Kirov Ballet (1986)

COMMISSIONS / CO-COMMISSIONS

• World Premiere: Angel’s Bone by composer Du Yun (2011)

• Cats (1989)

• Riverdance (1998)

• Bolshoi Ballet and Orchestra’s production of Spartacus (2005)

• World Premiere: Multi-media commission of the Symphonic Sports-tacular co-produced with Elliot Forrest featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra, co-narrators Merrill Reese and Michael Barkann (2011)

• World Premiere: Philadelphia Freedom Festival, The Passion of Octavius Catto, composer Uri Caine, featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra and Mann Community Choir. (2014)

• World Premiere: New Frontiers Festival, Hold Fast to Dreams adopted from poems by William Henley and Langston Hughes featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra Conceived by Nolan Williams, Jr. (2017)

• World Premiere: The Philadelphia Community Mass at Monumental Baptist Church (2018), Washington, D.C. Premiere at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (2018), and World Orchestral Premiere featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann (2019) Conceived by Nolan Williams, Jr., compositions by Evelyn Simpson Curenton, Dr. Rollo Dilworth, Ruth Naomi Floyd, and Dr. Jay Fluellen. (2018-2019)

• World Premiere: Multi-media commission of A Championship Season co-presented by the Philadelphia Eagles, and NFL Films featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra. (2018)

• World Premiere: Brilliantly Bernstein: Beyond the Baton Festival, Darin Atwater’s South Side, Symphonic Dances featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra (2018)

• World Premiere: SOUNDWALK, composer Ellen Reid, featuring The Philadelphia Orchestra SOUNDWALK ensemble. (2020-2021)

• World Premiere: Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story In Concert, featuring the Philadelphia Orchestra (2021)

• Philadelphia Premiere: Deep Blue Sea featuring Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, Mann Community Choir and Community Dance Ensemble (2019-2022)

• World Premiere: Darin Atwater’s Black Metropolis with Chill Moody and The Philadelphia Orchestra (2023)

LANDMARK PERFORMANCES

• North American conducting debut of Zubin Mehta (1976)

• International debut of Yo-Yo Ma, cellist (1981)

• International debut of Midori, violin (1983)

• The Royal Ballet performing Romeo and Juliet & Swan Lake (2007 performances at the Mann were the first Philadelphia performance in 31 years)

• North American premiere of Firebird: Reimagined. Co-Commissioner of Nationwide Consortium. (2016)

• World Premiere: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™ in Concert with The Philadelphia Orchestra (2016)

ABBA • ALISON KRAUSS • ARETHA FRANKLIN • B.B. KING • BARRY MANILOW • BOB DYLAN • BONNIE RAITT • BUDDY GUY • DAVID BYRNE • DIANA KRALL • DIANA ROSS DOLLY PARTON • DURAN DURAN • ELLA FITZGERALD • GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS • GLADYS KNIGHT • HALL & OATES • HARRY CONNICK, JR. • HERBIE HANCOCK JACKSON BROWNE • JAMES BROWN • JAMES TAYLOR • JEFFERSON STARSHIP • JETHRO TULL • JOAN BAEZ • JOE COCKER • JOHN MELLENCAMP • JOSH GROBAN • KENNY ROGERS LYNYRD SKYNYRD • MAVIS STAPLES • MAZE • PATTI LABELLE • PAUL SIMON • PETER FRAMPTON • RAY CHARLES • RINGO STARR • ROBERT PLANT • SANTANA

SMOKEY ROBINSON • STEELY DAN • STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT • STEVE MILLER • THE BEACH BOYS • THE FOUR TOPS • THE MONKEES • THE MOODY BLUES THE WHO (ROGER DALTREY) • TONY BENNETT • VANESSA

• FATHER JOHN MISTY • FLEET FOXES • HAIM • HOZIER • IDINA MENZEL • JACK JOHNSON • JILL SCOTT

JOHN LEGEND

KATY PERRY • KID CUDI • LAKE STREET DIVE

AWARDS AND NOMINATIONS

• 2010: Pollstar nomination for Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue

• 2011: Pollstar nomination for Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue

• 2014: Pollstar nomination for Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue

• 2015: Pollstar year-end ranking of 49 out of 100 amphitheater venues worldwide by ticket sales

• 2015: Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

• 2016: Philly.com Readers’ Choice for Live Music Venue

• 2016: Recipient of the Philadelphia Area Concierge Association’s “Best for Our Guests” award in the category of Music Venue

• 2017: Philly.com Readers’ Choice for Live Music Venue

• 2018: Webby People’s Voice Award nomination for new website

• 2018: Webby Award website nomination in the Events category for new website

• 2018: German Design Award nomination for new website

• 2018: Winner in 3 categories for PHL-17’s Top Spots – Best Entertainment Venue, Best Live Venue (Medium), & Best Live Music Venue (Large)

• 2019: Voted Best Entertainment Venue in PHL-17’s Top Spots

• 2020: Philadelphia Business Journal CFO of the Year Awards 2020 – Rising Star: Megan O’Shea, The Mann Center

• 2021: Architectural Excellence Design Merit Award from American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania for the Mann’s Master Plan

• 2022: Downstage @ the Mann voted Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly

• 2023: The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Philly Favorite Awards, Nominations for Favorite Concert Venue, Non-Profit Organization, and Attraction (winners chosen April 2024)

When the Philadelphia Eagles announced their season with a video shot utilizing 250 drones above our campus, they kindly spelled out the Mann for us! And Mann House Photographer Jordan August captured it in this photo. Photo enhancement by Phil B. Welcome. We are proud to have our name in lights!

STATISTICS SPOTLIGHT

• 475,000+ attendees annually

293,670 Patrons for Co-Presented Popular Programs at TD Pavilion

94,179 Patrons for Co-Presented Popular Programs at Skyline Stage

64,303 Patrons For Free Events

24,519 Patrons for Cultural Programs

• 315,000+ email subscribers

• 120,000+ social media followers

• 30,000+ children are reached annually through our free Education Programs

• 2,200+ times the Mann is mentioned in the media annually

• 170+ events annually

• 5 Performance Spaces:

• Presser Foundation Main Stage at TD Pavilion

• Full Campus Festival Format

• Crescendo

5 8 Event s

5 8 Event s

5 8 Eve nts Ap r 13, 20 22 - O ct 7, 20 22

5 8 Eve nts Ap r 13, 20 22 - O ct 7, 20 22

• Skyline Stage

• Downstage @ the Mann

*All stats are based on data from 2014-2022 (as of 3/22/23)

Identified Patrons 362,393

EDUCATION

Gr ad S c h o o l ( 1 2 49 %) E DUCATI O N LE V E L

Co lleg e ( 2 4.57%)

*Source: TicketmasterOne 2023 Mann Center audience data

EDUCATION

Our mission is to give every young person the opportunity to be inspired by the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the performing arts through the magic and richness of live performances. The Mann’s education and community engagement programs are designed and guided by three core initiatives:

1. Out-of-School Time (OST) 2. Workforce Development (WFD) 3. Creative Placemaking (CPM)

Out-of-School Time (OST)

Out-of-School Time initiatives initiatives offer students increased opportunities to explore and develop skills that are otherwise more difficult to access. These programs are shown to improve a student’s in-school engagement and retention of materials, proving the value of a program extends well beyond the time limitations of a specific project. The following programs comprise the OST initiative:

MOTION & MUSIC ACADEMY (MMA)

The Mann Center launched Motion & Music Academy in the Fall of 2020 as a year-round, after-school, and summer arts learning program designed to provide quality choir, drumming, and dance classes to students of the Parkside neighborhood. Motion & Music Academy is the result of a proud partnership between the Mann, Philadelphia Ballet, Sister Cities Girlchoir, and Mad Beatz Philly to provide quality arts instruction and concert experiences. Under the leadership of Dr. Naomi Johnson-Booker, Global Leadership Academy serves as the flagship school for this exciting new program, continuing the long-standing relationship between GLA and the Mann. Program partners include:

• Mann Center for the Performing Arts, Lead Artistic Partner

• Philadelphia Ballet, Program Partner, Dance

• Sister Cities Girlchoir, Program Partner, Choir

• Mad Beatz Philly, Program Partner, Drumming

• Global Leadership Academy, Program Site Partner

ALL CITY ORCHESTRA SUMMER ACADEMY AT THE MANN (ACOSA)

All-City Orchestra Summer Academy (ACOSA) is the Mann’s premier summer orchestra training camp for young instrumentalists. The Mann Center, in partnership with The Philadelphia Orchestra, the School District of Philadelphia, and Project 440, annually collaborate to facilitate this high-quality orchestra training experience at zero cost to local students. Designed to serve students from 6th to 12th grade, ACOSA provides a growth opportunity, guiding students to work on technical playing skills throughout the summer. In 2023, there were two weeks of ACOSA; Week 1 featured traditional orchestra training, and Week 2 featured dance training.

Students from the Mann’s Motion & Music Academy drum program perform on the Mann’s campus.

Joseph Conyers of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Project 440 conducting students from ACOSA.

MANN MUSIC ROOM POWERED BY PNC ARTS ALIVE

The Mann Music Room: LEARN Digital Curriculum and video series of over 30 episodes was launched in March of 2020 to respond to the pandemic. The digital series and study guides are accessible on the Mann’s website, YouTube, and social media platforms. Episodes highlight local artists through performances featuring different cultures from around the world. The MMR Curriculum takes students to other regions of the world by introducing music, dance, instrumentation, and food representative of each cultural chapter! The six nations highlighted in the chapters of this curriculum are India, Syria, Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the United States.

MANN MUSIC ROOM: LEARN LIVE! POWERED BY PNC ARTS ALIVE

Thanks to the generous support and funding provided by USLI, the Mann Center is proud to provide personalized programming for students within the Independence Mission Schools (IMS) network, the school district of Philadelphia, and local charter schools as part of the Mann Music Room Live! Initiative. This program consists of in-school performances by multicultural teaching artists trained in delivering educational workshops. These performances engage students in clapping, dancing, and moving along with the music as they learn various techniques found in the presented art form.

Mann Music Room: Hispanic Heritage Month with Ballet Nepantla

MLK Mann Music Room: Tamar Greene

Mann Music Room: Thunderbird American Indian Dancers

EDUCATION

Workforce Development: (WFD)

The Mann’s Workforce Development programs seek to provide valuable learning environments and opportunities to students and young adults ages 10–25 with the goal of each participant gaining skills and tools needed for success. Through innovative partnerships, the Mann offers a variety of WFD programs targeted to address three main pillars: Awareness, Exposure, and Experience. The following programs comprise the WFD initiative:

MANN CENTER JUNIOR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

The Mann Center Junior Fellowship Program, established in 2019 in partnership with Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia (CSFP), is an introductory program within the Mann’s portfolio of workforce development initiatives. Its core mission is to provide every young person with the opportunity to be inspired by the arts’ sights, sounds, and rhythms through the magic and richness of educational programming. Every year, students submit written and visual applications advocating for their spot in the program based on personal interests, passions, and their relation to the arts. As part of the Mann’s workforce development initiative, the Fellowship Program allows middle schoolers to learn about the career pathways within the music industry.

MUSIC INDUSTY TRAINING PROGRAM (MITP)

MITP is categorized as a Workforce Development program designed to serve young adults, ages 15-23, by offering the structure to viable career paths within the music and entertainment industry. MITP is a 3-year program with a tiered curriculum starting at access and observation and ending in applied skills and practice. Participating students will hear from and work directly with various industry experts, union stagehands, producers, school district educators, and other professionals from around Philadelphia as they develop both the hard and soft skills as guiding points to success. Music Industry Training Program is part of a larger School District of Philadelphia initiative focused on building CTE (Career and Technical Education) programs within various schools throughout the city. As the flagship site for MITP, Overbrook High School serves as the West Philadelphia hub for this citywide Workforce Development effort. Partners include:

• Mann Center for the Performing Arts, Lead Artistic Partner

• Live Nation Urban, Lead Program Partner

• DASH (Destined to Achieve Successful Heights), Lead Program Partner

• Youth of the Culture, Program Partner

• Live Nation Philadelphia, Program Partner

• School District of Philadelphia, Program Partner

• Overbrook High School, Program Site Partner

MITP students spend a day learning about music production with the Mann’s Community Artist-in-Residence, Chill Moody.

Junior Fellowship Program participants experience the Mann’s stage up close during a backstage tour.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Creative Placemaking: (CPM)

Creative Placemaking initiatives help promote growth and enhancements to quality of life within our community through arts and culture programming. Successful Creative Placemaking programs require strategic partnerships across sectors and effectively intertwine cultural institutions, community developers, artists and other stakeholders within the surrounding neighborhoods. The following programs comprise the CPM initiative:

YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERT SERIES (YPCS)

Young People’s Concert Series events are presented free of charge and provide culturally diverse performing arts programs accessible to students, grades K – 12, and families in an informal atmosphere. Events feature internationally acclaimed, emerging, and regional young regional artists on the Mann Center’s Presser Foundation Mainstage. Presented at the TD Pavilion at the Mann, YPCS performances are a welcome opportunity for individuals and groups interested in visiting the Mann campus to do so at no cost. As part of this series, students are bussed to the Mann at no charge, providing an additional point of access.

VOICES OF HOPE: A CELEBRATION OF BLACK EXCELLENCE

The Mann Center for the Performing Arts takes pride in amplifying messages of empowerment, compassion, and positive change in Philadelphia with its annual Celebration of Black Excellence: Voices of Hope. Through this creative placemaking event, the Mann creates an opportunity to shine a light on our Parkside neighborhood. Through educational and community-driven programs, the Mann is celebrated as a destination for arts entertainment and creative learning in West Philadelphia. Collaboration and creative placemaking are two anchor initiatives that drive the Mann and serve as a foundation to its vision, mission, and values.

Voices of Hope is a free community event that celebrates African American culture and iconic Philadelphia innovators who are contributing to and changing the community of Greater Philadelphia. Our annual celebration honors Philadelphia trailblazers who embody a culture of compassion and growth. We aim to spotlight a level of aspirational excellence for younger generations.

Top: Catherine Cahill, Sen. Vincent Hughes, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Larry Skinner, and Chill Moody pose for a picture at the 2023 Voices of Hope Ceremony. Left: Sharmain Matlock-Turner, Dr. Ala Stanford, and Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake in the Field Education Center at the Mann. Right: Mare and Chill Moody perform at the 2023 Voices of Hope celebration.

Students enjoy a free YPCS event, featuring Philadelphia native, DJ Diamond Kuts.

RENTALS

The Mann’s 22-acre campus offers out-of-the-ordinary spaces for distinctive experiences for everything from weddings, private parties, and social gatherings to graduations, community events, private pre-concert dinners, and cocktail parties as well as corporate events, company outings, and galas.

Located in the heart of Fairmount Park, the Mann’s campus boasts lush green lawns, bountiful gardens, historic art and sculptures, a fountain, and a panoramic view of the city’s iconic skyline, making it a unique backdrop for memorable events and gatherings. Six main areas are available:

TD PAVILION + PRESSER FOUNDATION STAGE

TD Pavilion, featuring covered seating and the venue’s Presser Foundation Stage, is recognized for its warm, cedar interior, metal exterior, and striking roofline with a total seating capacity of approximately 13,000 (4,500 seats under the roof and more than 8,500 outside on the Great Lawn).

Guests can now gather for wedding ceremonies and receptions to large scale meetings and events on the main stage, which has played host to historic performances for decades.

ACCLAIM

The venue’s newest event space, Acclaim, hosts 2,400 square feet of tented space featuring wonderful views and lush garden accents. The tent can accommodate up to 280 guests theater style and up to 200 guests for seated receptions. Inclusive of a private entrance, Acclaim is the perfect place to host your pre- or post-concert reception!

CRESCENDO

Crescendo, our 5,000 square foot tented space is located at the Top of the Hill with unparalleled views of the city skyline. Traditionally used as the Mann’s pre-concert restaurant, Crescendo also provides a unique space for private events such as corporate dinners, award presentations, annual meetings, wedding receptions and more. Crescendo can host up to 624 guests theater style and up to 450 guests for seated receptions.

Photo by Martin Reardon

Widener Graduation

Photo by Jordan August

Acclaim, situated at the top of the hill, is the Mann’s newest event space.

RENTALS

HIGHMARK SKYLINE STAGE STAGE + GREAT LAWN

The Highmark Skyline Stage Stage, a state-of-the-art scaffolding stage situated at the top of the Mann’s hill, provides an additional open-air venue with an expansive view of the city of Philadelphia.

Featuring a ready-made space for food trucks and a bar, the Highmark Skyline Stage Stage is a blank slate that can accommodate creative ideas and events with additional tented space on the adjacent main stage lawn, and a football-field-sized green space that accommodates 3,000 to 7,500 guests during sold-out performances at the Mann.

DONOR TERRACE

Built in 2006, the Donor Terrace & Garden is utilized to entertain major donors and guests in an elegant and private setting.

This space is flexible and can be made to accommodate a private dinner for as few as 12 people or a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception for 200 guests. Surrounded by lush gardens and unique sculptures, this twinkle-lit space features a lush outdoor area as well as the venue’s only indoor, climate-controlled location on campus. Featuring a private bar and restrooms, this is the perfect setting for your intimate event!

WOODLANDS BY TD

Situated in our expansive Picnic Grove sits the Mann’s newest space, the Woodlands by TD. Featuring stunning arboreal lighting and comfortable Adirondack and picnic bench seating, the Woodlands by TD is the perfect open-air setting for your outdoor event. With over 8,500 square feet, this versatile space offers easy accessibility for a wide array of interactive activities and attractions such as live entertainment, food trucks, and specialty vendors.

For more information or to book the Mann Center for the Performing Arts for an event, please visit MannCenter.org/Rentals.

Highmark Skyline Stage Stage at the Mann

Guests gathered in the illuminated Woodlands by TD.

A view of guests gathered in the Acclaim tent.

A view of the Philadelphia skyline from inside a private

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

Whether you are looking to engage with your clients at a dinner in our beautiful hilltop restaurant, Crescendo, reward your employees with tickets to the hottest concerts, or simply have your brand seen by over 300,000 visitors annually, the Mann’s corporate sponsorship packages can be tailored to suit your company or client’s hospitality needs. All sponsorship packages include VIP Box Seats, VIP Gold or Silver Lot Parking, and passes to our Donor Terrace & Garden.

The proceeds generated by corporate sponsors directly support the Mann’s Education and Community Engagement programs. These programs reach over 30,000 children and families each year to concerts, workshops, and master classes completely free of charge.

Corporate sponsorships are the perfect way to invest in our community! The Mann is a certified education non-profit organization and eligible to receive support through the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC).

For more information please visit, MannCenter.org/CorporateSupport.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Views of the Philadelphia skyline and Fairmount Park from the Mann’s Great Lawn

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: THANKS TO YOU!

MEMBERSHIPS

Becoming a member at the Mann means providing vital support to our wonderful Education & Community Engagement programs which continue to serve as a cultural resource to the Parkside neighborhood. Your membership directly assists our Mann Music Room, All City Orchestra Summer Academy, Motion & Music Academy, and much more. During our concert season, members also receive benefits not available to the general public.

Thank you for your contribution and for making a difference! For more information, visit MannCenter.org/Membership.

By supporting our community programs and becoming a member, you will receive:

• Access to ticket sales before the general public

• VIP parking closest to the Main Gates

• Special member-only entrance through the Donor Gate

• Recognition in the Mann’s Program Book

• Admission to the Donor Terrace & Garden

All City Orchestra Summer Academy (ACOSA)

Mann Music Room: Learn

CBS News national coverage of All City Orchestra Summer Academy

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS

I have never had a bad experience with the Mann. I have been to many shows and always leave with a smile on my face.

All I can say is- WHAT A PLACE! This was my first event at the Mann. I go to over a dozen concerts a year, and I was extremely impressed with this venue. From the view of the city skyline to the kindness of staff- the whole experience was outstanding. One of the best concert venues in the city, we can’t wait to go back!

The Mann shines in every way. The venue lends itself to all performances for anyone wanting a fantastic, easygoing experience. It’s clean, open, and safe! A well-rounded spot for all ages!

I love going to the Mann… attending concerts and performances is a true delight… everyone is helpful, and the venue is beautiful. Clean, safe, and welcoming. Brava!

Christine M. Phish

Julie M. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and Garbage

Lauren D. Yellowcard

Kim N.

The Trailblazing Music of Carole King, Joni Mitchell, and Carly Simon

PRESS HIGHLIGHTS

On Saturday afternoon during a live version of his Questlove Supreme podcast at the Mann Center, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson hinted that something special was coming late that evening at the Roots Picnic.

My left eye keeps tearing,” Scott said, dabbing her face with a small cloth. “It must know that I’m in Philly.

“Listen when folks come out even when it’s

you know

ready to celebrate,” said Naomi Gonzalez, the chief education community engagement officer for the Mann Center.

The event celebrates Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It’s an interactive

For the first time this year, spaces on the Mann Center for the Performing Art’s 22-acre campus are up for private event rentals. Yup, that means you can have rentals. There’s five event spaces total, including the Main Stage Pavilion — all featuring the Mann’s expansive greenery and classic skyline views from Fairmount Park, honestly can’t be beat.

It seems slightly time-warpy that hip-hop is now notching a half century, which means it’s had more staying power than a few other major movements in music. Impressionism was a force for about three decades, and other -isms like neoclassicism and serialism seem like blips on the screen compared to the genre that came out of New York City in the 1970s and grew up in Philadelphia.

It’s a point not lost on Chill Moody and Darin Atwater, whose hip-hop-infused, symphonicfortified Black Metropolis makes its world premiere July 19 in a free concert at the Mann Center.

Much like the STAR WARS performance in 2018, this event carried a buzz in the air. The capacity cr d was energetic,

“This will be the Roots Picnic to beat,” the drummer said, speaking of the festival founded in 2007 that has expanded to three days this year, with Usher scheduled to headline a mighty good vibe, Monday night at the Mann Center felt like a triumph. The program only had three works, but each sent a distinct message.

It was a stellar summer at the Fairmount Park amphitheater. Lauryn Hill and the Fugees reunited, and Questlove and the Soulquarians backed the Isley Brothers at the biggest ever Roots Picnic (which with Made in America canceled, was Philly’s biggest music fest). Philly rapper Chill Moody curated a 50th anniversary of hip-hop series, including a rock-rap mash-up with Low Cut Connie; and Tyler Childers, Willie Nelson, and boygenius all put on standout shows. Looking forward to next year.

But for the Roots Picnic, this is a chance to scale up. After 11 years at Festival Pier, Philly’s hip-hop heroes announced that their annual festival was moving inland, to the lush, hilly embrace of the Mann Center. It’s such a natural fit — a picnic at the Mann — that you can’t help but wonder what took so long.

It seems slightly time-warpy that hip-hop is now notching a half century, which means it’s had more staying power than a few other major movements in music. Impressionism was a force for about three decades, and other -isms like neoclassicism and serialism seem like blips on the screen compared to the genre that came out of New York City in the

It’s a point not lost on Chill Moody and Darin Atwater, whose hip-hop-infused, symphonicfortified Black Metropolis makes its world premiere July 19 in a free concert at the Mann Center.

If you watch Nickelodeon, Dance Moms, or Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, or are a girl younger than 12, you’re probably one of a zillion Siwanatorz — a fan of Joelle Joanie “JoJo” Siwa, the reigning tween phenomenon, dancer, singer, motivational speaker, and YouTube personality who sold out the Mann Center on Saturday night.

with a sense of inclusion and enter felt each sent a distinct message.

This week’s “two cool shows on the same night” dilemma finds Jenny Lewis at the Met Philly and Amos Lee with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann Center. Both on Thursday.

Lewis is the Las Vegas-born daughter of lounge singers who survived a start as a child actor — look for her in Troop Beverly Hills and Punky Brewster — and came to prominence in the early ‘00s when she fronted the the top-flight indie rock band Rilo Kiley with Blake Sennett.

It’s a blessing for the city of Philadelphia to have these two magnificent lions,” says Cahill, noting that about 30 similar replicas are located worldwide — from Cuba to Sweden. “They don’t exist anywhere else in the United States. These are it.

t’s 22-acre campus are up for private

spaces total, including the Main Stage greenery and classic skyline airmount Park, honestly

If the Mann Center was a Russian nesting doll, where Low Cut Connie and Chill Moody put on a fabulously fun hip-hop meets rock and soul show on Thursday — would be the tiniest doll of all.

The Mann can go big, holding up to 14,000 in its TD Pavilion amphitheater-plus-lawn set up, that will be used by James Taylor on Saturday and Erykah Badu on July 9.

The Wheels of Soul tour rolled onto the main stage at the Mann Center this past Wednesday night with absolutely no shortage of groove. Tedeschi Trucks Band delivered an incredible performance, as did their openers.

But for the Roots Picnic, this is a chance to scale up. After 11 years at Festival Pier, Philly’s hip-hop heroes announced that their annual festival was moving inland, to the lush, hilly embrace of the Mann Center. It’s such a natural fit — a picnic at the Mann — that you can’t help but wonder what took so long.

t’s 22-acre campus are up for private p, that means you ent

If yo Moms, or Competition, than 12, Siwanatorz

“JoJo” Si phenomenon, motivational personality Center on

It’s the city to have magnificent says Cahill, about 30 are located from Cuba

Much like the STAR WARS performance in 2018, this event carried a buzz in the air. The capacity crowd was energetic, enthusiastic, and full of positive energy.

“They don’t where else States.

But chance Festival announced was mo embrace a natural that yo took rforming

“JoJo” phenomenon, motivational personality Center

The onto the Center night with of groo delivered as did But chance Festival announced was mo embrace a natural that yo took so

spaces total, including the Main Stage Pavilion — all featuring the Mann’s greenery and classic skyline airmount Park, honestly If you Moms, Competition, than 12, Siwanatorz

But chance Festival announced was mo embrace a natural that yo took so If you Moms, or Competition, than 12, Siwanatorz

“JoJo” Si phenomenon, motivational personality Center

It’s the city to have magnificent says Cahill, about are located from Cuba “They where States.

It’s the city

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Despite the rainy weather Saturday, tens of thousands of people attended the HBCU Festival at the Mann Center in Fairmount Park.

raining,

they’re

Patrons use the walkway between the Great Lawn and the TD Pavilion at the Mann