Constitution Center celebrates Flag Day with theater reopening

INDEPENDENCE MALL (WPVI) -- With the ribbon officially cut on a $3-million renovation, the Sidney Kimmel Theater at the National Constitution Center was once again open Tuesday, right in time for Flag Day.

New seating, carpeting, upgraded technology, and Broadway-quality lighting help enhance Freedom Rising, the longest running show in Philadelphia.

"You really feel like you are there in the middle of American history," Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, said.

The theater's reopening comes 13 years to the day after the champ, Muhammed Ali, was the honored guest at the Constitution Center, which was still weeks away from opening.

"13 years ago today the late Muhammed Ali raised the flag that's now flying in the National Constitution Center, what an incredible anniversary to commemorate," Rosen said.

A lot of people were checking out the newly renovated theater, but this was just part of the celebrations happening on Flag Day 2016.

The American Flag shares a birthday with the US Army, and there was plenty going on and plenty of people to celebrate both.

"I don't think we would have freedom without our military," Diana Mangraviti of Bensalem, Pa. said.

"It's important to us because we love this country. We want our grandchildren to have the opportunities we had," Frank Pittenger of High Shoals, North Carolina said.

A parade with current and former troops, and lines of recruits marched down Independence Mall. Spectators cheering on our military today, and every day.

"I just think it's important that we raise our flags, care about our country, we show that we care about our country and we celebrate. When something is this close to home, you should be a part of it," Debbie Monforto of Audobon, Pa.