Performance Space for the
21st Century
Chatham, New York
Project Type: New Construction
Seat Count: 405
Opening: To Be Determined
Architect: JASONOAH Design-Build
AD Scope: Acoustics, Audio, Video, Lighting
PS/21 a not-for-profit organization is proposing to construct a 28,420 square foot performing arts building with a 19,930SF footprint. Presently [as shown above] there is a Saddle Span concert tent, with approximate dimensions of 80-feet by 60-feet and a seating capacity of approximately 300 for outdoor performances.
The main building, like the tent, will be used as a venue for public performances of music, dance, film as well as other performing arts programs with seating to accommodate 405 patrons. In addition to its use for public performances, it is anticipated that the building will also be used for instructional, rehearsal, meetings and other related purposes.
In the design of the new building equal weighting was given to supporting both dance and chamber music. This created some challenges with the design since the requirements to support these two art forms are quite different. Some of the unique solutions include a proscenium wall that is acoustically transparent above the top of the proscenium opening, and custom towers with dedicated storage behind the upstage wall. The towers match the architecture just downstage of the proscenium, and include elements that not only project sound out into the seating, but also provide important sound reflections between musicians so they can play with better ensemble.
