Originally built as a cinema in 1930, the Rialto in Limassol has been dogged by bad luck. But four years ago, it underwent a total re-fit to create the Rialto Theatre, since when it has gone from strength to strength and is now recognised as a significant cultural institution. At the time of the re-fit a temporary fore stage was installed and this year, to complete the metamorphosis, MultiStage International contracted AVW to design and manufacture controls for an orchestra elevator system. The new system provides the theatre with greater flexibility than ever before, which is vital as the facility regularly hosts a wide range of performances, from recitals to festivals and concerts to operas.
Driven by a Serapid chain, the orchestra elevator functions on various levels: it extends the fore stage to bring actors and musicians closer to the audience, increases the auditorium floor space to allow for extra seating and creates an orchestra pit.
Once work had started at the Rialto this summer the facility went dark for a month, but it has since re-opened and its schedule is as busy as ever with the launch of the International Guitar Festival at the end of October. John Tune, projects director of MultiStage International, explained why AVW was selected as a preferred supplier for this project: "MultiStage has already worked with AVW on a number of occasions, so we were aware of the expert and professional service they offer. Once again, AVW has proved itself - the orchestra elevator control system at the Rialto has lived up to expectations and I anticipate it will long continue to enhance the facility."
The new Strovolos Municipal Theatre in Nicosia was the second MultiStage project in Cyprus to specify an AVW Controls system, this time for the safety curtain. Work on the new facility has recently started and is scheduled for completion at the beginning of 2003.
(Lee Baldock)
