MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE
The project objective was the restoration and rehabilitation of this 1928
movie palace, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, for use
as a downtown performing arts center focuses on touring Broadway shows,
with capability for opera symphony, ballet and cinema. Two major
considerations guided the design. Faithful restoration of major
historic and architectural features was a primary concern. In
addition, the theater's mechanical and performance systems were renovated
or replaced as necessary to provide state-of-the-art comfort and technical
capability.
To facilitate the demands of ballet, opera and Broadway musicals, the stage wings and orchestra pit were enlarged and a hydraulic pit lift platform was installed. All new stage lighting, rigging, curtains and sound reinforcement systems were added, as were new dressing rooms. HVAC and electrical systems were renovated, although, wherever possible, existing fixtures and equipment were recycled rather than replaced.