David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
New York, NY

The renovation of David Geffen Hall's Wu Tsai Theater was a collaborative effort involving many lighting designers and manufacturers, including our team at Aurora Lampworks. The standout features we worked on were the stunning "fireflies" that hang above the Philharmonic stage and the sculptural torchieres throughout the lobby.

These custom firefly pendants are a signature element of the theater. As highlighted in LED Magazine, a “series of acoustic reflecting panels houses a collection of 47 unique polyhedron-shaped luminaires, ranging from 6 to 12 inches in diameter.” When a performance begins, these "firefly" lights come alive in a mesmerizing, choreographed dance – twinkling, rising, and falling in sync with a programmed scenario controlled by DMX technology.

Designing and installing these intricate lights was a feat of collaboration and ingenuity. LED Magazine notes that "Designing and installing the fireflies required the collaboration of 20 people, Martinez-Nobles estimated, including team members from Diamond Schmitt Architects, Fisher Marantz Stone, Fisher Dachs Associates, and Aurora Lampworks." Our team worked closely with the above partners to develop the mockups and electrical details to ensure they were UL compliant.

The 8 sculptural brass chandeliers, 14' in height, welcome visitors as they enter the lobby of David Geffen Hall. Chen Chen & Kai Williams designed and fabricated these beautifully executed fixtures. Our company played a crucial role in bringing these magnificent pieces to life, providing expert consultation, wiring, ensuring UL listing compliance, and coordinating the installation process. Our team's meticulous management ensured that these complex fixtures were safely and precisely installed, meeting all technical and aesthetic requirements. If you look closely, you'll find a little bird sitting on one of the leaves that branch out from the fixture, a charming addition to the original design that our installation team took great care to preserve.

Lau, Wanda. Agile design - LEDs flex their versatility at David Geffen Hall. LEDs Magazine, 2023, https://www.ledsmagazine.com/architectural-lighting/article/14288742/agile-design-opens-up-famed-entertainment-venue-to-broader-nyc-community.