Theatre Design Advancements
Over the last 24 months Bligh Tanner has had the opportunity to be involved in the design and installation of new high-level access systems that are designed to be installed within Performance and Theatrical spaces.
Tension Wire Grid Systems which is patented by Slingco is a tensioned cable system that allows elevated access over stages and performance areas without the need to install and operate motorised rigging trusses or use elevated work platforms to install lighting, sound systems and other performance equipment used for theatrical performances.
The tension net system is made up of closely spaced cables which are interwoven at 70mm centres and then tensioned to a perimeter steel beam. The net system allows for full access across its extents with the cables being fine enough to allow theatre and performance lights to be positioned and shone through the net without casting shadows.
There are many benefits that theatres can gain from the installation of Tension Wire Grid systems and some of these include:
– Increased overall performance space flexibility
– Improved working at heights safety for back stage staff
– Unlimited lighting orientations and positions possible over
– Increase speed in setup times for lighting, set and audio requirements
– No need to elevated work platforms, scissor lifts and other temporary access equipment.
– Allows for alterations to lighting, sound and sets during intervals.
Tension net systems can be retrofitted to existing theatres or alternatively installed as part of new theatres and performance venues.
Bligh Tanner has recently completed the structural design of the Bille Brown theatre refurbishment which is located in West End. Bligh Tanner worked closely with Conrad Gargett and Queensland Theatre with the design to ensure that the refurbishment incorporated an elevated tension net within the theatre roof space. Detailed structural analysis was required to ensure the system could be installed within the existing building with the existing roof structure strengthened and upgraded to accommodate the tension net system. The refurbishment of the Bille Brown Theatre is currently under construction with tension net in the final stages of installation.
