Faced with a growing demand for help in correcting errors in design and build projects for a wide range of entertainment venues, London-based theatre consultancy Theatreplan has initiated a ‘Theatre Doctor’ service for the UK. One of Theatreplan’s partners, Peter Ruthven Hall explained that this is as much about preventative advice as it is involved with curative or palliative care. “The service has been particularly valuable for the client at the initial concept stage of a project,” says Peter, “where we are able to explain some of critical parameters of the design – access and sightlines for example. The client then feels more confident when specifying, discussing and understanding the proposed design during the development and construction phases.”
Theatreplan has developed a standardised consultation format with a fixed fee structure that works for any phase of the project – from reviewing initial design documentation to assessing a finished building. A specialist consultant from Theatreplan will review key aspects of the auditorium design including sightlines, type of seats and audience access, advise on the stage facilities including stage engineering, lighting, sound and scenery storage and access, performer facilities, health and safety, emergency evacuation requirements – in fact all ‘live entertainment’ needs, right through to the size and location of the box office, disabled facilities and refreshment areas.
Each consultation results in a summary report that outlines the issues to address to avoid existing or potential problems with the design. Theatreplan has further details on its dedicated website www.theatredoctor.com and has also prepared a detailed explanation of the scheme and how it works within the UK, which is available on request.
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