Newark Symphony Hall, Newark

Newark Symphony Hall was originally built in 1925 by the Shriners at a cost exceeding $2 million and was initially known as the Salaam Temple, or colloquially, The Mosque Theater. This four-story neo-classical building, designed by prominent Newark architect Frank Grad, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Grad's design features Greek and Egyptian motifs, marble columns, a crystal chandelier, gold-leaf fretwork, and two-columned side promenades, contributing to its grandeur and historical significance.

For many years, Newark Symphony Hall was the home of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, the New Jersey State Opera, and the New Jersey Ballet Company. In 1964, the venue was renamed Newark Symphony Hall, reflecting its broader role as a cultural and community hub. The main concert hall, which seats 3,500, is named after Sarah Vaughan, a celebrated jazz singer and native of Newark, and is renowned for its excellent acoustics, making it a prime location for musical performances and concerts.

In addition to the main concert hall, Newark Symphony Hall houses other performance and event spaces. Newark Stage, a 200-seat black box theater, provides a versatile venue for theatrical productions, while the Terrace Ballroom is frequently used for receptions and other large gatherings. These spaces make Newark Symphony Hall a versatile and vital venue for the performing arts, capable of hosting a wide range of events from intimate performances to grand concerts.