The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center wins architecture award

At its annual conference, the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) recognized The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla with the USITT 2024 Architecture Honor Award.

The Conrad, as the center is known, is owned and operated by La Jolla Music Society (LJMS). Opened in 2019, it was designed by architect Epstein Joslin + Picardy Architects, with theatre consultants Theatre Consultants Collaborative and acoustical consultant Nagata Acoustics.

The Conrad comprises The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, which seats 481; The JAI cabaret-style performance space, with table seating for 140; and The Wu Tsai QRT.yrd, where free events such as a community concert series and open houses are held.

The facility also houses the offices of La Jolla Music Society, offstage and backstage spaces, and a full catering kitchen. In addition to hosting more than 80 LJMS events each year, The Conrad is available for rental and saw more than 150 rental days in 2023, ranging from classical music and ballet performances to fundraising galas and high school proms.

“USITT is so pleased to recognize the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center with our 2024 Architecture Honor Award and to honor the exemplary work of Epstein Joslin+Picardy Architects,” said Laura Lee Everett, executive director of USITT. “This stunning facility is a fitting home to the world-class performances of the La Jolla Music Society and the building raises the level of performing arts in La Jolla, in California, and across the country. Congratulations!”

“We’re honored to receive this prestigious award from the United States Institute for Theatre Technology,” says Todd Schultz, president and CEO of La Jolla Music Society. “The award is a recognition of the care and thoughtfulness that went into the design and construction of The Conrad, which makes it such an attractive venue and helps us fulfill our mission of being a vibrant and inclusive hub in the community.

“Since we opened, we have received many compliments about The Conrad, from the artists performing on our stages to the audience members enjoying the experience, and now this award. We’re very grateful.”  

Alan Joslin, FAIA, and Deborah Epstein, founding design principals at Epstein Joslin+Picardy Architects, said: “We are honored at the recognition given by the USITT Architecture Awards Committee for recognizing The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center as this year’s Architecture Honor Award winner. However, we have been most thrilled by the energy and talent with which the La Jolla Music Society has been able to infuse the setting, and the enthusiasm felt by its audiences. Of course, the project’s true success comes from the vision provided by the La Jolla Music Society, and the support of an inspiring design team.“

LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY

As one of Southern California’s leading presenters of premier performing arts, La Jolla Music Society contributes to San Diego’s cultural vitality year-round through a rich variety of presentations, including classical, jazz, global roots, contemporary music, and dance. In addition to robust educational programs and community outreach, La Jolla Music Society produces SummerFest, a four-week music festival each summer featuring world-class artists and ensembles performing eclectic concerts. For more information, visit TheConrad.org or call 858-459-3728.