Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts groundbreaking celebration for new, Reimagined Highmark Mann Plaza & Patron experience

City and state officials joined leaders from the region's arts, culture, business, and civic sectors on Wednesday to officially break ground on one of Philadelphia's largest capital projects for 2026, leading into the semi-quincentennial - a completely reimagined entry plaza and visitor experience at the Mann.

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(wayne bradley/ scoop photo)

Elevating the celebration was a surprise announcement: Philadelphia's premier outdoor music destination is getting a new name just in time for its own 50th anniversary year. Officials from both Mann and Highmark Blue Shield announced their new 12-year partnership, naming it the Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts.

New Era & New Name

"This is a transformational moment in our history," said Catherine M. Cahill, President and CEO of Highmark Mann. "For the first time since this venue was constructed in 1976, we are building anew to create magical spaces and experiences for patrons and the community, and that is thanks to the generosity of so many. We are incredibly grateful for Highmark's leadership and wholehearted belief in our mission; with their partnership and long-term commitment, we are reimagining together how we can serve the future of our city. That's good for our audiences, artists, and our communities. Today is the beginning of a bold new chapter as Highmark Mann, extending beautifully the legacy that our original namesake and fearless leader, Fredric R. Mann, established 50 years ago."

Cahill added that Highmark's investment not only gives the venue a new name but also serves as a catalyst for inventive artistic programming, greater community engagement, and broader educational reach and access through the ambitious new Institute for Creative Arts & Community Impact.