Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing
Arts Center - Davis Recital Hall
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa


Seat Count: 300
Project Type : New Construction
Opening: April 2000
Construction Cost: $23 million
Client: UNI Facilities Planning
Architect: Hammel, Green Abrahamson
Theatre Consultant: Fisher/Dachs Associates
Contractor: Story Construction Company
A/V Installation: DB Acoustics
AD Scope: Acoustics and Audio Systems

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Davis Hall is a flat-floored venue that facilitates both rehearsals and performances through the use of flexible architectural and acoustical elements, including retractable seating risers with integral seating and acoustical curtains. In addition, a removable area of the floor, with steps for additional seating below the elevation of the floor, creates a “raised stage” to formalize the venue for performances.

The space includes a perimeter gallery that accommodates important technical, acoustical and visual functions. The gallery, which can wrap entirely around the performance space, including the platform, also allows additional seating, and is intentionally set at a low elevation to scale down the space. This gallery also provides early sound reflections to enhance acoustical clarity and intimacy and assist musicians in larger ensembles (for rehearsal) in hearing one another.

A third technical level, complemented by catwalks and supplementary steel for lighting and rigging, gives additional support to theatrical presentations. lighting and sound control rooms accommodated at the technical level support elaborate productions and professional quality recording.

Because Davis Hall is one of three performance venues at the Gallagher-Bluedorn performing arts center, a high level of sound isolation was required. Cost-effective isolation methods were employed, including a full-perimeter structural joint and sound and light lock entrances.