THE AFI SILVER THEATRE AND CULTURAL CENTER

Adorned in the art deco style and originally designed by the architect John Eberson in 1938, this historic theater in Silver Springs , Maryland has been rejuvenated for the millennium. Not only have the historic portions of the theater been fully renovated, but also a 32,000 square foot new modern building stands adjacent, merging the old and the new. The theater complex houses the Historic Silver Springs Theater, two new screening rooms and a black box theater. The theaters support formats from 16 to 70mm, high-definition digital cinema video projection, broadcast quality video recording and distance learning capabilities via satellite, fiber and the internet Also located in the complex are facilities for retail, concessions and a glass-walled gallery space of exhibits and special lighting effects.

Working with the architectural firm Gensler, we designed the lighting system for the historic areas to accentuate the art deco patterns and details with light fixtures concealed behind architecture allowing minimal visual intrusion into the space. Oppositely in the modern areas, we used light to create rhythmic patterns on, behind, or in front of architectural materials allowing a more playful and non-traditional expression of light. This juxtaposition of technique and architectural style creates an exciting new energy for this historic landmark.

On June 23rd 2003 the 31st AFI Life Achievement Award presentation to Robert DeNiro was televised from the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center.