Located in scenic East Fairmount Park, the Dell Music Center is Philadelphia’s premier outdoor entertainment venue. This open-air amphitheater, managed by the City of Philadelphia’s Parks & Recreation, offers the very best in musical entertainment, family-oriented activities, and creative learning through educational opportunities in the performing arts. Formerly called The Robin Hood Dell East, the Dell Music Center was originally built in 1929 as the summer home of the Philadelphia Orchestra. In 2010, the Dell underwent a comprehensive $6.2 million upgrade to restore the facility to its original use and splendor. The fourth largest performance venue in Philadelphia, the Dell Music Center- a world-class amphitheater boasts 5,344 reserved seats, with an additional 600 lawn seats. Through the years, the Dell has hosted many of the music industry’s most renown entertainers including legendary performers Dizzy Gillespie, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald and Nancy Wilson; comedians Bill Cosby and David Brenner; soul singers The Ojay’s, Ashford & Simpson, and Natalie Cole; and gospel artists Shirley Caesar and Marvin Sapp. Most recently, popular contemporary artists Gladys Knight, Frankie Beverly, Dave Koz, Sheila E., Robin Thicke, and Chrisette Michele have graced the Dell stage. During the summer months, the Dell plays host to the fabulous summer concert series known as “Essence of Entertainment”, presented by Parks & Recreation since 1972. Essence of Entertainment concerts are held every Thursday evening. What’s offered at the Dell doesn’t stop there! The Dell hosts commencement ceremonies, along with Welcome America events, festivals, events and performances by the Philadelphia Dance Company (Philadanco).