Construction Expert: Specialty Considerations for Theatre Construction

From K-12 or higher education stages to community theatre productions to large scale, professional performances, performing arts facilities are impactful to the communities they serve, regardless of scale. Performing arts centers benefit the community by creating jobs, establishing safer neighborhoods and have an economic impact. Additionally, performing arts centers make art more accessible, revitalize underused or outdated facilities, unite different groups of people, generate discussions on social issues, increase community well-being, create a sense of community identity and so much more.

In our more than 35 year history, Rockford has created many spaces that support the performing arts. We have served in K-12 and higher education spaces, such as Northview Public Schools’ Max Colley Performing Arts Center, and collaborated with community theatre teams such as at Grand Rapids’ Civic Theatre. Whether new construction or renovation, Rockford’s team of experts understand the unique design and specialized construction considerations of performing arts centers.

Acoustics & Sound

One of the most important considerations of performing arts centers is acoustic and sound control, which shapes the overall experience of a venue. Material and equipment selection shapes the soundscape of the space and defines a production for the audience. The walls within the space need to be acoustically rated and, in addition to ceilings, will have special sound deflectors. Noise pollution from rain or weather events or from HVAC airflow can be disruptive, requiring specific remedies. Special ballasts on the roof reduce rain noise while utilizing larger ductwork quietly delivers the necessary air required to keep the space comfortable.

Delivering a world-class theatre space is more than just selecting the right equipment and materials, it also involves knowing how and where they should be installed to impact the overall sound quality. Different angles and heights of installation ensure the space performs as intended. Locations where equipment, such as speakers, are placed is a key consideration. Determining whether speakers should be ceiling mounted, on the side or backwalls, or behind the screen greatly enhances or impacts sound quality. If improperly placed, absorbing, reflecting, or amplifying acoustic material and equipment can create echoes or diminish the sound altogether, hindering the overall experience for the audience.

Lighting

Equally as essential, lighting is transformational in stage storytelling, setting the mood of the performance. From backlighting to front lights, downlighting and side lighting, placement of lights changes the effect and feel of the performance. Walls, ceiling and the technical scaffolding are designed and constructed to not only support the lighting needs of the space, but to not interfere with the sound performance. Faceted panels or vertical timber battens around the perimeter of the space enhances sound quality as they support the placement of various lighting solutions.

Lighting selection and placement enhances performance but can also enhance the sustainability of the facility. The efficiency of LED lighting technology has significantly improved over time. Compared to halogen or incandescent lights, LED is more durable, more energy-efficient and more versatile in producing the effects and colors required by a wide range of productions. Not only are energy-efficient lighting systems better for the environment, but they are also more economical, saving money in the long run. LED lights produce significantly less heat, meaning both maintenance and cooling costs are lower.

Lines of Sight

The shape and size of the auditorium, layout of seating and stage placement changes the way in which both the viewer and the performers utilize the facility. Our team works with designers to consider both the vertical and horizontal lines of sight when placing seating and the stage. Horizontal sightlines considers the audience’s view of the stage and if there are any curtains or set pieces obstructing their view. Larger performing arts spaces typically require raised seating or balconies, which alter the vertical sightlines of patrons. Considerations for curtains, acoustic equipment, lighting, rigging or other equipment looks different at each elevation of the seating.

MEP Systems & Utilities

Careful planning and coordination of MEP systems and utilities prior to the project breaking ground is imperative. To ensure that the facility performs properly, the functionality, capacity and location of utilities should be assessed from the onset of the project. Coordinating with trades and the designer on the electrical layout in relation to seating and lighting and conduit placement early in the construction process is beneficial to the project timeline and a quality installation.

Performing arts facilities are more than just buildings; they are cornerstones of the community. The arts connect people to culture, social issues and one another. Rockford’s skilled professionals can maintain quality and safety throughout the course of the project to deliver a beautiful space for arts and communities to prosper.