High School for the Performing Arts

Constructed in 1893, this school gained popular recognition as the setting for the 1980 movie, “Fame”. The landmarked building was gutted by fire in 1988. JLGA undertook the complex historical renovation including restoration of the landmarked façade, reconstruction of the copper mansard roof, and construction of a new elevator/stair core.

The completed renovation of the building’s interior included a new 250-seat theater on the lower floors, classrooms, a library, and multipurpose gymnasium.

The historic restoration of the Former High School for the Performing Arts (now called the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis High School) received an Award of Excellence from the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and a Historic Educational Building Award from the Preservation League of New York State.