Synthesis designed the Central Park Amphitheater to replace the old Music Haven stage, which hosted music and arts events in the park for more than 30 years. A group of Schenectady citizens, artists, and art promoters sought a new amphitheater and stage to replace the old structure. The new stage was completed in 1999 and continues the great tradition of outdoor park concerts and festivals in Schenectady.

Built with durable materials, the new amphitheater provides excellent stage facilities for local symphony concerts, a dance and theater productions, and small and mid-sized musical groups that frequently perform in Central Park during the summer. The stage was oriented to take advantage of sun angles and naturally shading tree lines to reduce glare. The building provides exceptional acoustics for an outdoor theater and the performance space is fully accessible.