University of Colorado, Colorado Springs—Ent center for the arts

Abstract

The UCCS Ent Center for the Arts is a transformational five-venue center; an innovative collaboration involving the university, six community arts partners and three local school districts. Jaffe Holden provided acoustic and audio/video systems design services for a wide range of spaces including a multi-use hall, recital hall, art gallery, drama theaters, art lab, recording studio, music rehearsal room, teaching studios and practice rooms. Our acoustic focus within the Shockley-Zalabak Theater was on making a successful multi-use hall to support a wide range of programming including full orchestra ensembles and small chamber groups. The acoustic response can be adjusted by a motorized system of drapes and acoustic banners concealed above a partially sound-transparent ceiling. A stage lift allows changes to be made to seating configuration and provides a stage extension. An acoustical shell can be configured to accommodate both large and small group performance. The Chapman Foundation Recital Hall’s acoustics can also be tailored to suit various musical ensembles, thanks to an adjustable acoustic curtain system hidden above the partially sound-transparent ceiling and slatted wood wall at the rear of the stage. One of the biggest challenges was to successfully isolate a dance studio directly above a recording studio control room.