The Egg

The Egg is a performing arts center in Empire State Plaza, Albany, completed during the 1970s from plans by architect Wallace Harrison and housing two theatres within a curved concrete shell. The oval structure rises on columns above the plaza, appearing as a freestanding sculpture that surprises visitors with its rounded lines both outside and inside.

Construction began in 1966 under Wallace Harrison, and the building opened to the public in 1978. The completion marked the end of a large urban renewal project for the area.

People in town often call it by its nickname, which fits its oval form, and the building has become a symbol of midcentury experimentation that locals recognize from miles away. Inside, visitors attend performances that range from children's shows to chamber music, and the halls bring together neighbors and travelers during the season.

Visitors reach the upper levels by riding circular elevators, which offer an unusual journey. The two theatres differ in size, and checking the hall layout before a show helps understand which space hosts your performance.

The circular elevators were designed to carry heavy equipment and even elephants up nine stories from the loading dock. This unusual engineering requirement reflects the range of events planned over the decades.

Location: Albany

Inception: 1966

Architects: Wallace Harrison

Official opening: May 12, 1978

Architectural style: brutalist architecture

Part of: Empire State Plaza

GPS coordinates: 42.65040,-73.75850

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30