4.8.3 Stage | Chicago Public Schools

Planning Rationale

The stage acts as an integral part of the performing arts program at schools. Ideally, all performing arts spaces such as the black box theater, dance studio, dressing rooms, scene shops, storage and other accessory spaces should be in close proximity to one another for efficient use of resources.

Lighting controls shall be located in the control room. Connections for a lighting and sound panel shall be located at the proscenium opening and in the house floor for a remote panel setup. A mobile cart with controls shall be used for maximum flexibility for different performance types.
Scene Shop: Shall be located with direct access to the stage and exterior shall be provided by program.
Storage for costumes, risers and sets shall be provided in the stage area.
Green Room with a PA system immediately accessible to the stage should be included, or an adjacent room such as the dance studio can serve as the green room if there are space or program constraints.

Rigging for lighting shall be located either by catwalks or ceiling hung system. Coordinate with CPS on whether dynamic or dead hung rigging will be used. Rigging shall be closely coordinated with the theater consultant. Dynamic rigging will require a much taller stage block. The theatre stage rigging system shall consist of a system of battens which raise and lower either by manual counterweight or electrically. Battens shall be of sufficient quantity and length to support all curtains, drops, and masking; lighting, orchestra shell, and some scenery. Typical hoisting capacity shall be between 1000 and 2000 pounds. Rigging, dynamic or otherwise, shall be designed in coordination with the theater consultant. Coordinate ductwork and other building systems with stage rigging.

Room Data Sheets

4.8.3 STAGE DATA SHEET