Ravinia Festival pavilion reopens after $70 million renovation

The Ravinia Festival's Hunter Pavilion reopened after a $70 million renovation that replaced the 1950 structure with new seating, acoustics, and backstage spaces. The pavilion's seating capacity dropped from 3,350 to 2,840 after wider seats were installed to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. LED lighting and nine ventilation fans were added to reduce stage temperature.

Acoustics and design changes Acoustical panels and a stage ceiling clad in rigid foam with 3M vinyl were installed to reduce hot spots and soften brass volume. The design drew from geometric patterns in the windows of the Martin Theatre, which opened in 1904.

A women's locker room, piano storage, practice rooms, offices, and a music library were added by expanding space beneath the audience area and an adjoining building.

Season and operations The Chicago Symphony Orchestra's summer season begins Saturday night with a program led by chief conductor Marin Alsop. Up to 12,758 people can attend events on the pavilion and lawn in Highland Park, Illinois. A total of 335,500 tickets were sold for the 2025 season, which includes 94 programs.

A private concert for construction workers, design team members, elected officials, donors, and staff is scheduled for Friday.