Architecture for Performance

Objectives:
i) To investigate theatres or playhouses.

ii) To investigate appropriate spatial responses in both plan and section.

iii) To investigate the structural implications and challenges related to theatre buildings.

iv) Developing the planning solution for a fairly complex building accommodation schedule.

v) The exploration of existing urban context with the intention to develop an appropriate design within and to context.

vi) The development of an appropriate aesthetic.

The Challenge 
"A theatre building is usually made up of a large number of rooms. Some of them, such as refreshment rooms and cloakrooms are designed to look after the needs of the audience before they go into the auditorium. Some of them, such as dressing-rooms and wardrobe rooms cater for the needs of actors before they go onto the stage. Others, including offices and workshops. provide working spaces for staff and technicians. Important as these rooms are, the most vital spaces in a theatre are the stage and auditorium, and the foyer. It is (all) these spaces that give the main traits of character to the building that we call a theatre." - Stephen Joseph "Actor and Architect" pg. 1. University of Toronto Press, reprinted 1969.

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For most people the idea of a theatre derives from their experience of the picture-frame or proscenium stage. It is the common form of theatre in the UK, throughout Europe and the United States. It is also the most common in countries with a Colonial past. It is widespread because it has had a long history and many assume that it is the only possible form of theatre. This is not true. The picture frame stage can be considered a manifestation of fashion and like all fashionable things is liable to change. Its suitability as a playhouse is also open to question. There are many other valid forms of stage which have been, and still are, used successfully as playhouses.

 

This project is to provide two theatre spaces;

1) A 500 seat theatre having a proscenium stage.

2) An intimate 150 seat "cabaret" theatre.

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Below you will find the presentation panel of my design.