June 13, 2023

100 Things a Theatre Architect Should Experience

It is important to understand what we are trying to build when designing theatres and other places for performing arts. With apologies to the late architectural critic Michael Sorkin, consider these things every theatre architect should understand. Most theatre consultants do.
May 2, 2023

Origins of the 50-ft Stage Rule for Fire Safety Curtains

Fire Safety Curtains and other proscenium opening protectives have been a topic for stage design for centuries (literally). In 1992, ASTC got involved in the process of revising the building codes, resulting in significant changes to requirements for stages. Bill Conner, FASTC led that project. Here he tells the story.
March 29, 2023

2023 ASTC-USITT Renovation Challenge

The 2023 installment of the ASTC-USITT Venue Renovation Challenge was live and in person after being a remote event in 2021. Four teams presented their work for judging.
March 27, 2023

ASTC Member Updates, Spring 2023

The American Society of Theatre Consultants has welcomed five new members and two new associates. ASTC also thanks four long time members and awards them Emeritus status. Finally ASTC’s internship program has a new name.
February 8, 2023

Catwalk Considerations

Catwalks are a common feature in performing arts spaces. Theatre consultants recommend locations and design criteria for these important components. Well-designed catwalks are safe and useful parts of a building, providing access for lighting, rigging, and general maintenance.
December 17, 2022

Choosing Between Performance Equipment Upgrades or a Venue Renovation

Performing arts buildings are often thought of as 50 or 100 year buildings. But a plan is needed so these spaces remain operational and to meet the needs of an owner as requirements and technology changes. Here are some thoughts on the ranges of intervention, and a good argument for developing a long-term plan.
December 11, 2022

Rigging Terminations – Then and Now

Our industry has come a long way over the last few years, and it’s not just about LEDs! There have been great strides when it comes to safety and proper engineering of the equipment that goes into theatres. Here, we go into the weeds, er… up into the flies.
November 13, 2022

Early Theatre Winch Controls

In the early days of Theatre Consulting as a profession, some consultants were much more hands-on when it comes to the design of equipment to solve a particular need. As the saying goes, “necessity is the mother of invention”. Jim Read, FASTC shares some thoughts on his early work with consulting pioneer, George C. Izenour, and how early winch controls were developed.
November 12, 2022

ASTC Remembers Jim Read, FASTC

The American Society of Theatre Consultants (ASTC) mourns the loss of longtime member and Fellow, James “Jim” Read, FASTC, who passed away on November 2, 2022.