Program Summary:

Creatively enhancing this1960’s era theatre’s versatility, functionality, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal extends its life as a showcase for the performing arts at this burgeoning university.

Program Statement:

The guiding principle of the design was to study the original construction documents to determine what its architect, John Charles Wheeler, might do to extend the life of his creation.  We discovered that a fan shaped plan parti extends from the center point of the back wall of the stage into the auditorium and through to the entry lobby.  All construction and datum lines radiate from and converge to this focal point.  The walls of the auditorium and the front entry exterior wall all radiate about this axis.

To expand the limited lobby space, the ticket booth was reestablished as ticket windows.  The windows were located on the entry facade within bays established by the existing radiating lines of the floor -  projected onto the front facade.  Permanent bench seating and trash/recycling receptacles were built into the existing angled side walls of the lobby to integrate these required elements and to provide for display of playbills, and posters advertising upcoming events.  Three moveable service counters were designed to serve multiple functions within the Lobby.  These tables are designed to be placed as serving carts, check in tables for receptions, or as the back tables for ticketing and can be rearranged during theater productions for intermission and post production functions. 

Reinforcing the original design, ebony stained, wood paneled light bridges are dramatically suspended within the lobby to precisely follow the radiating lines of the existing floor.  The floating quality of the light bridges is enhanced with indirect lighting.  For continuity, to encourage the movement of the theatre patron, and to extend the expanse of the lobby space the terrazzo floor of the Lobby was extended into the radiating circulation spine.  The low ceiling of this curved corridor is celebrated with a rhythm of point source light fixtures.

The existing wood panels and the existing seating within the theatre were both refurbished, instead of being removed and added to a landfill.  The wood paneling was restored and wall sconces added to showcase the richness of this existing material.  The theatre seating was removed, refinished, reupholstered and replaced to provide a renewed appearance while being environmentally and historically responsive.  Acoustical panels were integrated into the balcony railing and along the back wall of the auditorium to soften the reverberation.  Additionally a new sound booth was incorporated at the main level in the back of the theatre.

The renovation includes modifications that allow the theatre and support functions to be fully accessible. The palette of materials, finish, and color selections of terrazzo, ebony stained wood panels, black granite and stainless steel were chosen to compliment and enrich the original materials and the dramatic function of the space. 

The design concepts brought new life, longevity and vitality to this theatre allowing it to continue to serve the university for many years to come.