The CPS Fine & Performing Arts programs may vary from school to school. Typical high schools have a multifunction gymnatorium space, which contains both a theater function and gymnasium function. Given the potential circumstances where independent performance spaces are necessitated by programs for specific schools, this section has been written to cover both auditorium and gymnatorium conditions. Although “house” conditions might vary, the stage block and back of house provide similar features. An orchestra pit and dressing rooms are to be provided in locations with auditoria. Seating capacity for each scheme varies as will acoustical provisions, lighting controls and catwalks. Increasingly, black box theaters are serving as a performing arts space in lieu of or in addition to the auditorium and gymnatorium, and will also be outlined in this section. Auditoriums are not currently planned in new schools, but may be added in the future.
This section also covers the seating, stage, and back of house requirements for each scenario. Additionally, performing arts schools shall contain a dance studio. In the case of a shared gymnasium and auditorium space, the lobby or pre-function zones with the ticket booth and public toilets of both shall be combined. If these spaces are distinct, they may share the pre-function spaces depending upon layout. In both scenarios, the spaces shall be designed in accordance with the direction of both an acoustical consultant and a theater consultant. Consultants that represent specific manufacturers or vendors are not recommended.
Fine arts spaces should be located in a way that permits display and performance spaces to be easily accessible by the public. If there are multiple fine arts spaces, locate them in proximity to one another so that they support each other. Fine and performing arts spaces should also be located near music and art classroom suites, as these spaces are also fine arts as well as core classroom programs.