December 12, 2017

Announcing the 2019 ASTC – USITT Student/Consultant Renovation Challenge

PLEASE NOTE: The ASTC / USITT Venue Renovation Challenge will now be held every two years 2019, 2021, etc. with the Cash prizes significantly increased. READ […]
December 12, 2017

Move the Floor

For centuries it’s been a design goal of theatres and other places of public assembly to increase flexibility. For some venues, a theatre that is only a proscenium or thrust stage doesn’t provide enough possibilities for changing around the presentation method. In some cases, the goal is variety and experimentation. For other organizations the need is more options for revenue generation. At the most recent ASTC Forum held in San Antonio, TX, members explored the possibilities of adjustable audience floors.
December 12, 2017

New ASTC Member & Associate

The American Society of Theatre Consultants met in San Antonio in September 2017. During the business portion of the yearly Forum, applications for membership were reviewed. […]
July 18, 2017

The Ups and Downs of Stage Rigging

Deciding between manual and motorized or automated stage rigging used to be an easy choice, largely driven by project needs and budget. Today, automated stage rigging has become more economical and wide-spread, making it a realistic choice for even public-school work. Read More...
July 18, 2017

Tips for Front of House Planning

In our last issue of ASTC:Notes we included a popular list of Back of House design features that make for a better facility. We turn the theatre around and consider the Front of House lobby and related public spaces. Read More….
December 18, 2016

Gender Identity Accommodation in Performing Arts Facility Planning

For some the topic of gender identity and proper accommodations is uncharted territory, but it’s clear that more discussion and understanding is needed. Two ASTC members participated in a panel at the 2016 North American Theatre and Engineering Conference, and this article is adapted from that presentation. READ MORE….
December 18, 2016

Tips for Back of House Planning

As theatre consultants, many of us cut our teeth working in theatres, loading-in sets, and running shows. For that reason, we have a special passion for backstage areas. While theatre technicians are among the most resourceful people anywhere, there are many things we can do to make their lives easier. ASTC:Notes surveyed a few members for some of their favorite tips for a successful backstage. READ MORE….
December 18, 2016

ASTC at NATEAC 2016

The ASTC membership was well represented at the 2016 North American Theatre Engineering and Architecture Conference held in New York City. The following is a recap of ASTC member involvement and some discussion of the event. READ MORE….
December 18, 2016

ASTC Revit Summit NYC 2016

Revit and other BIM (Building Information Modeling) software has been a hot topic amongst Theatre Consultants for the last few years, with no clear consensus on its best use. It’s clear this sort of software is gaining in popularity with a variety of results for projects and practices. ASTC gathered interested parties for a roundtable discussion of the realities as well as best practices. READ MORE….