Designed by RMJM Architects and built by BAM Construction, the building is part of an extensive programme of rebuilding and refurbishment at the institution. Production-based degree courses benefiting from the new Gateway teaching facilities include Performing Arts (Film, TV & Stage) and Film and Television Production.
Having previously provided the lighting system for the University's Students' Union venue, The White Room, which is also used for teaching, A.C. Special Projects was commissioned by BAM Construction to supply and install equipment for the new performance facilities. The company also assisted with the systems' specification.
For the green-screen video production suite, A.C. provided a complete rigging and lighting solution. Equipment included an IFF track rigging system, Quartzcolor spotlights and Photon Beard fluorescent cyclorama lighting, Zero 88 Chilli dimming, an ETC SmartFade lighting control console and a wrap-around cyclorama track complete with both green and black out drapery.
A.C. also provided the lighting infrastructure, including internally wired lighting bars, Zero 88 Chilli dimming, control and drapery for the University's new drama studio. Designed in such a way to allow different room configurations, this provides versatile use of the space for both teaching and performance applications. An extensive control infrastructure was also commissioned to support any future investment by the University in digital lighting technology.
Since the new facilities opened, students have hosted a series of public rehearsed readings in the drama studio, with plays including William Shakespeare's Measure for Measure and The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht.
Phil Talbot, the University's technical manager, comments, "We were extremely satisfied with the high level of service afforded by A.C. Special Projects. They delivered the high standard of lighting we were looking for and completed the job in a professional and effective manner. No job was too big or small for them and they often came in to help at a second's notice if we called them with a query or for assistance."
(Jim Evans)
