Planning Rationale
The design of the auditorium is driven by the needs for a multi-user performing arts program inclusive of drama, music, dance, and lyric theatre as well as speech and media events. CPS has not recently constructed auditoriums, typically constructing gymnatoriums instead. The preference is for all seating to be accommodated off of a main floor level with no balcony level for supervision purposes. Seating shall be designed to accommodate wheelchair space as required by code as well as companion and accessible seating. Designs shall also afford a seamless integration of accessibility from the audience to the stage for people with disabilities. The capacity of the auditorium shall be provided in the program, with the layout in coordination with the theater consultant.
- Sight Lines: A forward or sloped seating section shall be designed for accessibility and to provide above average sight lines and good access to the orchestra area. Special consideration should be given to ADA accessible seating distribution, and sight lines. In the rear half of the theatre, the seating shall be tiered upward resulting in very good lines of sight from all seats and aiding the intimacy of the space.
- Circulation: Also emphasized in the planning shall be the circulation both from stage to backstage areas and out of doors as well as between the audience and performance areas. This is especially useful for presentations and awards ceremonies, events where audience members may be called to address or present, and for music events where there are multiple ensembles and the members of one are in the audience while the other performs. Circulation routes from backstage to the front of house shall be developed in a manner that avoids going through the house is necessary for seamless use of performance spaces. Seating aisle standards include aisle lighting as required for egress during a performance.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair seating shall be dispersed throughout the house seating both vertically and horizontally. The wheelchair accessible route from seating to stage shall be designed in such a way as to create a formal route similar to the non-wheelchair route.
- Entries: Create vestibules at each entry for light and acoustical separation from other parts of the school.
- Materials: are to be selected in consultation with CPS and the theater and acoustical consultants. Suspended painted gypsum board or wood veneer are acceptable materials at the ceiling.
- Orchestra Pit: The option of having an orchestra pit should be made in coordination with CPS, the school, the acoustical and theater consultant.
- Proscenium: Shall be designed to code in coordination with the theater consultant.
- Control Room: Shall be located at an upper level at the wall opposite the stage.
- Catwalks and Rigging: Lighting shall be designed in coordination with the school and a theater consultant.
- Acoustical Considerations: shall be incorporated in coordination with the acoustical and theater consultants.
- Theater Consultant: Shall be brought on board and involved in all aspects of the architectural and MEP design of the space.