Civic Opera Building, Art Deco skyscraper in central Chicago, United States.
The Civic Opera Building is a 45-story tower on North Wacker Drive with symmetrical side wings flanking a central core, all clad in limestone. The structure houses office spaces and a large opera house with seating for about 3,500 people.
The building was commissioned by Samuel Insull in 1927 and completed in 1929 as a new home for opera in Chicago. This project was part of Insull's broader vision to establish the city as a major cultural force separate from New York.
The opera house inside serves as a home for major performing companies that draw audiences throughout the year. Visitors experience live performances that reflect Chicago's long-standing commitment to supporting opera and dance.
The building is a major downtown skyscraper with good public access to certain areas, though entry to the opera house requires tickets for performances. The main lobby and exterior are easily viewable when walking through the neighborhood.
The building's form was intentionally designed to resemble a throne facing westward, reflecting an ambitious cultural vision. This distinctive silhouette becomes apparent when viewing the structure from certain angles across the city.
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