Built on an area of 3,000sq.m, it combines bars, dancefloor, five billiard tables, eight lanes of bowling and the Gorka retro nightclub, all wrapped up in striking hi-tech urban architecture that blends into the landscape of the historic city centre.
Patrons can climb to the top of the pitched roof, which will be used as a hill slope for skiing in the winter - hence the name - and in summer as an amphitheatre for concerts.
EAW components have been used throughout the complex, as part of an installation carried out by EAW's Russia distributor, MS-Max.
Open seven days a week, much of the activity at Hill Hall takes place inside Gorka where the dance system has been constructed around eight EAW KF730 line array loudspeakers (hung in two arrays of four), with six ground-stacked BH760 subs. This is supported by JFL210 compact line array side-fill hangs, six LA212 full range speakers (for the Chillout area, bars and general surround) and three JFX100. In addition, three MicroSubs, and further JF60 and JF80's serve the various VIP areas. Finally, five black SMS1990 surface mount speakers provide ancillary coverage in the toilets and jacuzzi.
A generous stage monitoring provision includes EAW's MicroWedge series - and consists of four MW12 five MW15 and a further pair of LA212.
The building is proving to be a complete success. The construction company had been extremely cautious in the development stage as the new cultural and entertainment centre is located in the heart of the UNESCO protected area - however the architects guaranteed that none of the natural landscape would be sacrificed as a result.
(Jim Evans)
