The Mann Center Undergoing Renovation, Name Change

PHILADELPHIA — One of Philadelphia's major hubs for the arts is undergoing a redesign, and ground broke on the project Wednesday.

The Mann is getting a completely reimagined entry plaza and visitor experience, and a new name, for 2026.

Officials from both the Mann and Highmark Blue Shield announced their new, 12-year partnership as Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts.

When Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts opens its 2026 season next spring, the new 40,000 square foot plaza project, three times the size of the current main gate and plaza area, will welcome patrons with:

• A grand, main entry canopy.
• A Welcome Center with the first-ever enclosed, public spaces, including a Music Hall of Fame with archival objects and an interactive jukebox for guests to explore Mann history and the music of the artists who have performed at the venue over its 50 years, as well as the Encore Gift Shop.

• The Satell Centennial Wall East: a 4,200 square foot dynamic, light-and-sound digital wall that will display vivid installations and historical and cultural video productions on the exterior of the TD Pavilion. Made possible by the generous support of Ed Satell, founder and chair of the Satell Institute.
• Interactive digital installations and wayfinding enhancements.
• New ticket office, now accessible from inside and outside of Highmark Mann gates.
• ADA accessibility enhancements.
• Additional restrooms.
• Expanded concessions and patron amenities, including a new permanent outdoor bar and seating area.
• Stormwater management and green infrastructure.

"This is a transformational moment in our history," Catherine M. Cahill, president and CEO of Highmark Mann said. "For the first time since this venue was constructed in 1976, we are building anew to create magical spaces and experiences for patrons and the community, and that is thanks to the generosity of so many."

The groundbreaking and renaming also mark a milestone in the Mann’s 50th Anniversary Campaign. Now in its public phase, the $70 million campaign supports the venue’s endowment, programming, campus renewal, and education and community initiatives.

Already 85 percent toward its goal, the campaign is made possible by the generosity of supporters who believe in the lasting impact of the arts in Philadelphia.

"We believe in the connection between art, music, and health, and that equitable access to creative opportunities in the arts can contribute to community well-being in profound ways," Dan Tropeano, market president, Highmark Blue Shield in southeastern Pennsylvania, said. "As one of Philadelphia’s cultural treasures, the Mann has a long, successful history of community involvement and arts education that changes lives, and we couldn’t be prouder to now play a larger part in that story."

To mark the 50th anniversary of the venue and the nation’s 250th birthday, the 2026 season at Highmark Mann will also include original commissions and signature programming highlighting the history made on or near the venue in 1876, 1976 and, soon, 2026. These programs will feature Highmark Mann’s resident companies, including The Philadelphia Orchestra, BalletX, and Mural Arts Philadelphia.

Performance details will be announced in early 2026.