Kristina--Congratulations on this new/repurposed space. Lots to consider to be able to respond with particulars for your unique situation. I can offer some general thoughts related to safety and health, though. It sounds like much of the infrastructure might already be "set in concrete" by now but be sure to discuss these issues with the project managers:
Ventilation, for both the Black Box and the scene shop.
Assuming the Black Box is primarily/only used for classes, rehearsals and performances, (not scenery building, painting, or crafts work), comfort ventilation (HVAC) with sufficient air exchanges based on local building code requirements and ASHRAE standards is required. The ventilation system for the Black Box should be designed with lessons-learned from the pandemic and how to reduce COVID-19 exposures.
The scene shop must have adequate industrial ventilation, designed and implemented based on the expectations for the types of work to be done in the space. Wood working and similar fabrication processes require dust collection. Crafts work with chemicals, paints and solvents requires local exhaust, and possibly fume hoods or spray booth. Welding and metal working requires specific ventilation and designated work areas.
Other Must-Haves:-secure storage for power tools, hand tools and other hazardous equipment
-Secure and appropriate storage cabinets for chemicals, paints, etc.
-Assuming painting and finishing of scenery and props in the shop, an industrial-type sink with appropriate drain for cleaning paint equipment.
-Designated area in the shop for first aid cabinet, eye wash, PPE storage, and other safety and health related equipment and supplies.
-In the Black Box, a resilient or sprung floor to diminish the possibility of injury from repetitive moment.
-In the scene shop, a floor treated to be slip resistant under expected conditions: sawdust, or wet, etc.
-Fire and life safety: sprinkler system; smoke detectors; emergency lighting.
-In the Black Box, sufficient number and location of exits from the performance space to accommodate the various configurations of use.
-Determine materials handling issues from raw materials to finished products to strike and disposal.
I hope these ideas are helpful. I'm glad to discuss any of these suggestion, or chat with you more about the possible requirements. You are welcome to get in tough with me if need be.
Take care and be well.
Bill
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Bill Reynolds (he.him.his)
Lecturer in Theater Safety & Health
Yale School of Drama/Yale Repertory Theatre
203-314-1543---cell
Bill.reynolds@yale.eduAuthor: Safety and Health for the Stage
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-21-2021 13:03
From: Kristina Cummins
Subject: Needs for new Black Box and Scene Shop
Hello hive-mind...
I'm in a unique and enviable position where I can ask for what I want in my new scene shop and Black Box space. We are building a new PAC, and are at the tail end of the construction. I've been asked to send a wish list of what I want to outfit the new spaces, and I'm truly at a loss.
I would love some thoughts from those of you with more technical experience...
1. The existing proscenium theatre is being transformed into a teaching/Black Box Space; they are just putting up a wall and building an office space. I know I'll be receiving some risers/chairs to create the seating, and a teaching wall with a blackboard, projector, etc.; otherwise, it is all a blank space. They are keeping the grid, lighting, and curtains - unless I tell them otherwise. Please let me know what "MUST HAVES" and other "WOULD LIKE TO HAVE" ideas you can offer!
2. I can also ask for what furnishings and tools/machinery that I want in the scene shop.
Pictures of your scene shops and black box classrooms would be incredibly helpful!!
Thank you all!!
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Kristina Cummins
Theatre Teacher,
Capital High School
Co-Chapter Director
Washington State Thespians
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