Hubbard_Teacher_Guide_-_FINAL

VENUETHE POWER CENTERTHE POWER CENTER for the PerformingArts grew out of a realization that theUniversity of Michigan had no adequateproscenium-stage theater for the performingarts. Hill Auditorium was toomassive and technically limited for mostproductions and the Lydia MendelssohnTheatre was too small. The Power Centerwas built to supply this missing link indesign and seating capacity.In 1963, Eugene and Sadye Power,together with their son Philip, wished tomake a major gift to the University. ThePowers were immediately interested insupporting the University’s desire to builda new theater, realizing that state andfederal governments were unlikely toprovide financial support for the constructionof a theater.Opening in 1971, the Power Centerachieved the seemingly contradictorycombination of providing a soaringinterior space with a unique level ofintimacy. Architectural features includetwo large spiral staircases leading fromthe orchestra level to the balcony andthe well known mirrored glass panelson the exterior. The lobby of the PowerCenter presently features two hand-woventapestries: Modern Tapestry by RoyLichtenstein and Volutes (Arabesque) byPablo Picasso.The Power Center seats approximately1,300 people.POWER CENTER121 Fletcher StAnn Arbor, MI 48109Emergency ContactNumber:(734) 764-2538(Call this number to reach a UMS staff person oraudience member at the performance.)University of Michigan, Power CenterUMS 09-109