The centre will include two auditoria, totalling 1,000 seats, and will be fitted with the latest theatre technologies, including complete automated power flying from Stage Technologies. The system will include BigTow winches and a MaxisID control system operated by Nomad control consoles.
The Leicester Performing Arts Centre, due to open in Spring 2008, is expected to gain international recognition providing a magnificent new home for theatre and the performing arts at the heart of the city's Cultural Quarter. The stunning new building, designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects, will replace the Leicester Haymarket Theatre, built in the 1970s. As well as a venue for performing arts and live music, the centre will have a visual arts gallery, a digital media centre, production workshop space, a dance studio and rehearsal rooms. This will create workspaces for artists and designers, whilst also improving external open spaces in the area. Stage Technologies have worked with venues in regeneration programmes in the past, such as The Sage Gateshead in Newcastle, and strongly support inclusive and accessible theatre, believing that it is one of the fundamental criteria when designing a new entertainment venue.
(Lee Baldock)
