Stanley Theatre
Utica, New York
Seat Count: 2,945
Original Construction: 1928
Renovation Complete: 2005
Client: Central New York Community Arts
Council
Theatre Consultant for the Stagehouse
Renovation: Theatre Projects
A/V Installation: ProMix
AD Scope: Audio and Noise Control
The Stanley Performing Arts Center was a Thomas Lamb design that originally opened September 10, 1928. The Central New York Community Arts Council (CNYCAC) purchased the Stanley in 1974 and began its restoration. The theatre now has four major local presenters: the Broadway Theatre League, which brings in touring Broadway shows; the Munson-Williams-Proctor Institute Great Artists Series, which features the best in opera, recital artists and dance companies; the Utica Symphony Orchestra and the Mohawk Valley Ballet.
When AD first began working with the CNYCAC in 1998, we were asked to assist the theatre by engineering upgrades to the house loudspeaker system. AD designed a new center cluster system for the theatre along with new under balcony delay. Once the upgrades were installed, we oversaw the equalization of the system.
Current activities at the Stanley include the renovation of its stagehouse. The original theatre design allowed for little backstage space. In fact, in the 1930's elephants were loaded into the theatre through the front of house. CNYCA is currently upgrading the stagehouse to improve theatrical production. AD is designing show program monitors, production communications and developing the infrastructure for future additions to the systems. Assistive listening systems are being added, and we are providing noise control consulting for the backstage area.
