Teatro 'La Fenice', Venice --- The secrets of the acoustical reconstruction of the destroyed theater according to historical and modern requirements

Abstract

The reconstruction of this artistically and architecturally very important opera house that was completely destroyed by a fire and which was famous throughout the world not least for its excellent acoustical qualities, was a brilliant challenge also for an acoustician. The historical planning requirements - complete reconstruction "as it was; where it was" - the latest findings in room acoustics as well as a huge number of "modern" requirements are to be brought in line. The theatre hall as heart of the Teatro "La Fenice" was reconstructed in its classical horseshoe shape with five tiers in pure wooden construction. Modern standard specifications had to be met for ventilation and air conditioning, the installation of a modern stage machinery as well as an improved safety and fire prevention concept. Furthermore the space allocation plan had to be extended by the integration of new rehearsal rooms and technical equipment rooms. From the point of view of building and room acoustics this was a very complex task - if in addition the cramped conditions of the Teatro "La Fenice" in Venice are taken into consideration. The lecture provides an insight into the building and room acoustical planning, its realization and the achieved acoustical results.