A collapsible, modular canopy and stage system was designed for commencement ceremonies in Franklin Field.

The 300,000-sf football stadium holds significantly more spectators than the 15,000 who typically attend graduation events. In an attempt to improve the intimacy of the event, and to enhance the activities of commencement, a flexible stage and canopy system was designed.

The new stage subdivides the field, concentrating commencement guests into the eastern side of the arena. An aluminum-framed truss system supports translucent graphic panels, video screens, and a sculptural fabric canopy. Keast & Hood provided the structural design for the canopy and staging.

The project was awarded an AIA Philadelphia 2003 Citation for Design Excellence.

A collapsible, modular canopy and stage system was designed for commencement ceremonies in Franklin Field.

The 300,000-sf football stadium holds significantly more spectators than the 15,000 who typically attend graduation events. In an attempt to improve the intimacy of the event, and to enhance the activities of commencement, a flexible stage and canopy system was designed.

The new stage subdivides the field, concentrating commencement guests into the eastern side of the arena. An aluminum-framed truss system supports translucent graphic panels, video screens, and a sculptural fabric canopy. Keast & Hood provided the structural design for the canopy and staging.

The project was awarded an AIA Philadelphia 2003 Citation for Design Excellence.

CLIENT: MGA Partners, Architects
LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA

TYPE: Academic, Special, SERVICES: New Construction, MATERIALS: Steel, Other, SUSTAINABILITY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Completed project photography © Barry Halkin Setup photography © Paul A. Thompson