Tuesday will mark the first rule in 45 years allowing consumption of drinks during performances inside the Hart and Swyer Theaters
ALBANY, N.Y.—Raise a toast! The Egg Center for Performing Arts is pleased to announce that beginning on Tuesday, October 10 and going forward, beverages will be consumed by patrons in the Kitty Carlisle Hart and Lewis A. Swyer Theaters. The updated policy, the first of its kind since The Egg opened in 1978, marks a strategic shift in the way visitors experience Albany’s premier performing arts venue.
“This is the first step in breathing new life into The Egg and crafting an environment where art can be enjoyed in a more relaxed, comfortable setting,” said Diane Eber, new executive director of The Egg. “This is one step in a larger intentional effort to open the arts to all and make our programming more inviting for broader audiences. Cheers to hatching a new era at The Egg!”
Since starting at The Egg on September 5, Eber has prioritized developing a more inclusive and comfortable audience experience. Her efforts to evolve The Egg will continue over subsequent months through initiatives in programming, décor, exhibits and other strategy and policy shifts designed to bring The Egg to its community – and likewise welcome the Capital Region to its crown jewel atop Albany’s skyline.
“When Diane first proposed this shift, our board members universally agreed that it was an excellent idea,” said Mary A. Griffin, chair of The Egg’s Board of Directors. “This is one small part of the approach we knew and expected Diane would bring with her to Albany. The Egg has enjoyed a long, storied path throughout its history, and Diane’s fresh perspective allows us to continue breaking new ground while keeping The Egg’s guest experience at the forefront.”
Tuesday evening will be the first time in The Egg’s history that a permanent policy allows beverages to be sold and consumed inside both theaters during all performances. Previously, a rule prohibiting beverages was relaxed only on a case-by-case basis. In an effort to avoid the use and complications of glass, concession stands at The Egg will offer beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages in single-serve containers which may be brought into the theaters.
The new beverage policy will be implemented for Steve Hackett’s performance on Tuesday evening. Eber will lead a toast from the stage at 7:15 p.m., marking the milestone. Credentialed media are welcome to attend for photos and video, and are asked to email jaclyn@bakerpublicrelations.com prior to visiting to confirm their attendance.
About The Egg:
Known for its unique architecture and impressive acoustics, The Egg Center for the Performing Arts has been welcoming audiences since it opened in 1978. Owned by the State of New York and managed by the not-for-profit Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Performing Arts Center Corporation, The Egg is dedicated to supporting the arts, spotlighting emerging artists, fostering relationships with resident companies and enhancing community activities in cultural and arts education. To learn more about The Egg, visit theegg.org.