Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, November 19, 1995 TAG: 9511170104
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 9 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: WASHINGTON LENGTH: Short
The project is aimed at bringing the white marble structure that's the size of two football fields up to current building codes for fire and safety, heating, air conditioning and handicapped access.
Managers also plan to improve the poor sound quality in the Concert Hall, where the National Symphony Orchestra has played since the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts opened in 1971. Musicians have long complained they can't hear one another on stage, making it difficult to play together.
Funding for most of the project has been authorized by Congress, but private donations will pay for fixing acoustics and other minor peccadillos, said Tiki Davies, director of the Kennedy Center's press office.
The renovation will eliminate at least 200 seats from the 2,750-seat Concert Hall in a complete redesign, including new floors, seats and aisles.
The 1996-97 symphony season isn't expected to be interrupted because the orchestra plans to play in other houses and theaters at the Kennedy and throughout Washington D.C. during later months, according to the center.
The center also has a leaking roof and other structural problems that need repair.
- Associated Press
by CNB