Venue Information

Performing arts theater in Albany, New York

The construction of The Egg - the Empire State Plaza's Center for the Performing Arts - began in 1966 and was completed twelve years later in 1978. It was designed by architect Wallace K. Harrison, who can count among his many accomplishments including Lincoln Center, Rockefeller Center, and the United Nations Headquarters. Legend has it that the unusual shape of the building was inspired by a breakfast meeting Mr. Harrison had with Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller. The Governor, who readily admitted that he had “an edifice complex,” explained that he wanted the building to have an unusual design that would contrast with all of the horizontal and vertical lines of the other buildings. The Governor then placed half of a grapefruit on top of his teacup and suggested that Mr. Harrison create the building in that shape.