'Hard hat' performance celebrates construction of Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities

Last week a special concert was held in the Sohmen Concert Hall at the Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities to celebrate those involved in its construction and successful opening.

The concert was dubbed the ‘hard hat performance’ because many of the attendees had worn protective hats whilst working on the building before it opened.

In the afternoon, philanthropist and businessman Stephen A. Schwarzman witnessed the unveiling of his portrait in tribute to his foundational gift which made the building possible. It was painted by Stephen Polson, and is now permanently installed in the Schwarzman Centre’s Great Hall.

Mr Schwarzman said: "It was an honor to celebrate with so many of those who made this new Centre a reality. I also recognize that we could have filled the theatre many times over with the number of people who touched this project in some way. I offer my deepest thanks and great excitement for the impact this building will have on Oxford and beyond."

Professor Dan Grimley, Head of the Humanities Division at Oxford University, said: “The Schwarzman Centre has already become a vital part of university and community life since its doors opened in October, so it was wonderful to be able to recognise those who have made that success possible. The portrait of Stephen A. Schwarzman is a fitting recognition of his visionary philanthropy. The evening of outstanding musical performances gave us a taste of what can expect when our venues open and cultural programming begin from late April.” 

The Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities has brought together seven of Oxford University’s internationally recognised Humanities faculties for the first time, as well as the Institute for Ethics in AI, Oxford Internet Institute, and new Bodleian Humanities Library.

The public performance spaces include the 500-seat Sohmen Concert Hall, a 250-seat theatre, a black box immersive performance space, dance studio and cinema, an exhibition space, a museum for the display of the renowned Bate Collection of historic musical instruments, café, and bar. 

The Schwarzman Centre cultural programme begins in the spring with a free Open House festival on Saturday 25th April. Open to all, it's a building wide celebration of culture and the humanities with pop-ups, talks, performances, and discovery. 

For more information about Open House, visit https://www.schwarzmancentre.ox.ac.uk/theme/open-house-cg1t

Photographs by John Cairns