Converting a grade II school hall into a modern theatre
Southall | Theatretech
The Brief
Converting a grade II school hall into a modern theatre, complete with control room, and separate presentation and rehearsal areas.
Specific elements of the build
We worked with audio-visual consultancy, Theatretech to convert and refurbish this grade II traditional school hall into a modern theatre for pupils as well as for external hiring purposes. In addition to a modernised auditorium, we created a control room with viewing window, and helped the school maximise available space. The school now has extra areas for rehearsal and teaching, as well as a separate presentation / speaking platform.
We worked over the summer holidays and into the first part of the autumn term. Careful scheduling and on-site safety procedures meant we completed on schedule and didn’t disturb the working life of the school in any way.
![Converting School Hall To Theatre](https://www.galowerbuild.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/converting-school-hall-to-theatre-1.jpg)
![Converting School Hall To Theatre](https://www.galowerbuild.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/converting-school-hall-to-theatre-7.jpg)
Our work comprised the following elements:
- Extended the stage to create a day-to-day presentation area.
- Created a rehearsal room, closed off by sliding panels.
- Refurbished the area under the stage for use as a separate sound-proofed teaching area.
- Built new stairs down either side of the new retractable seating.
- Constructed a control room with a viewing window into the auditorium and stage.
- Refreshed the original wooden panelling, and decorated throughout.
![Converting School Hall To Theatre](https://www.galowerbuild.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/converting-school-hall-to-theatre-3.jpg)
![Converting School Hall To Theatre](https://www.galowerbuild.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/converting-school-hall-to-theatre-4.jpg)
We discovered that the existing beam underneath the balcony (and upper tier of seating) wasn’t fit for purpose in supporting the weight. We therefore replaced the beam and ¾ quarter ton of concrete with new steel supports. Then we built a new wall with sound insulation and created the under stage teaching area.