Roe Green Center - Kent State University - Kent, Ohio

This photograph of the new black box theater, late in the construction phase, shows the plywood resilient subfloor ready for installation of the black stage floor surface. Aisle lights all around the perimeter are switched in groups to reduce the quantity of portable aisle lights that must be installed for each seating arrangement. On the walls, alternating panels of acoustically reflective and acoustically absorbing material are separated by timber ribs that can support heavy loads. A pair of rigging beams runs parallel to the edge of each catwalk just above head height. These beams are sized for rigging heavy loads between the catwalks including chain hoists, hemp sets, and dead-hung point loads.

As part of a $12 million renovation and expansion of its performing arts facilities, Kent State University is adding a technology black box that is suitable for dance and drama performances and also is equipped for avant-garde and experimental work in computers, projection, and robotics. State-of-the-art technologies and new technologies are a strong part of the KSU performing arts curriculum. The room is equipped with multiple data networks, with high and low end equipment from many different manufacturers, with power for temporary equipment, with densly spaced catwalks and with multiple technical galleries. Strict coordination of mechanical trades and structural elements keeps them away from production areas in order to prepare this space to accept unforseen future designs and technologies. The project also includes a lobby expansion, three large new dance studios, new dance department offices, two acting studios, a large light lab, a suite of new wardrobe work rooms, and numerous other improvements to this busy facility.

Architect: Holzman Moss Bottino Architecture
Acoustician: BAi