Theatrical Services

Theatrical spaces are often multipurpose venues that accommodate a variety of performances. To provide the optimum aural environment, attention must be given to room design, shaping and finish selection. Diminishing or eliminating background sound levels (caused by the mechanical and electrical system) and intrusive noises from outside the space are just as important as room acoustics. Sound isolation from exterior sources and from other areas within the building is vital for patrons to experience a distraction-free performance.

Here are some of the services we offer to create the ideal theatrical sound environment:
• Room shaping
• Surface treatments
• Computer modeling – ease/ears
• MEP noise and vibration control
• Sound isolation – exterior/interior

Theatre audio-visual systems are often required to support a wide variety of events, including dramatic presentations, musical theatre, dance, contemporary concerts, classical concerts, lectures, and multimedia presentations.

While performance audio is often the focus of the event and critical to its success, sound reinforcement should be transparent and unobtrusive. The systems must provide both even coverage and sufficient frequency response throughout the seating area. This requires close integration with the acoustical design, as well as space planning throughout the design process.

Our audio-visual services for theatrical facilities include:
• Audio reinforcement
• Video and data projection and distribution

Lighting systems are critical to the functionality of any theatre. The lighting system must provide sufficient levels for performance, set construction and emergency egress. Having an adequate quantity and appropriate location of lighting position provides the flexibility to accommodate various production lighting designs. In addition, lighting instruments and dimming equipment should be selected for durability and ease of maintenance in order to withstand the rigors of theatrical productions.

Newcomb & Boyd offers the following lighting services for theatrical facilities:
• Performance stage lighting
• House lighting
• Lobby lighting
• Exterior architectural lighting

A working stage is defined by its rigging system – manual counterweight, motorized or a combination of both. Orchestra pit lifts are often multi-functional and can move equipment to the stage level, provide an additional seating area or create a thrust stage. To ensure sufficient capacity and safety, the stage mechanical systems must be closely coordinated with the architectural and structural design team. Lineset spacing, loading rail locations and fire curtain systems are a few of the many items that make a stage functional and safe.

We offer the following rigging services:
• Manual and motorized rigging
• Lifts
• Soft goods

A theatre is a complex combination of spaces that provides rooms for various functions at multiple levels. First, back-of-house spaces, not accessible to the public, are essential to the operation of a working theatre. Adequate rooms must be provided for costume and property storage, as well as construction shop space for scenery. Dressing rooms, for example, need to be conveniently located and sufficient for the intended use of the theatre. In addition, musical productions often require an orchestra pit that must be sized to accommodate the anticipated number of musicians and instruments. Sightline studies are vital to ensure that every patron has a clear view of the performance.

To achieve ideal space planning in theatrical venues, our Consultants help with the following:
• Sightlines
• Backstage areas
• Production facilities