Creative reuse and renovation in educational performance environments

Abstract

Educational institutions for the teaching and training students in the arts are often hampered by facitlity limitations. Shifting priotities for the space, outdated acoustical design direction, and budget restrictions place creative constraints on artists and educators. The talent of the performers and arts programs often far exceed the facilities. Funding for renovation is a slow process and may take decades before funds are available to modify and improve the acoustics of performance spaces particularly in rural areas. Volume, shaping, and poor reflected energy are the most common issues. Budget is a limiting factor at many institutions, however, creative collaborations with the design architects allow for significant acoustical improvement. Several case studies will be presented that examine improving the acoustical performance for both the performers and audience while working within the constraints of existing structures. Examples presented include conversion of a classic fan shaped theatre into a musical performance space, conversion of gymnasiums into rehearsal/performance spaces and acoustic enhancement of traditional auditoriums.