Hyman Forum

Modeled after the amphitheatres of Europe, the Hyman Forum is a wide-open space whose character changes from day to day—and sometimes hour to hour—according to what happens to be going on there at any given time. At its lowest point sits a stagelike area that can be configured to accommodate various kinds of readings, performances, panel discussions, and other public events. The steps leading up from the stage to the main entrance of the Athenaeum are designed to accommodate crowds of varying sizes as they accumulate there to observe and participate in the programs taking place. Video monitors around the forum enable visitors to gather to watch unfolding world events, films, simulcasts of campus events, and other footage.