As we enter the new year, we welcome the dramatic changes that have occurred in our Jesuit Stage and Film program, and to those who have not visited the lecture hall recently, a surprise awaits.
Beginning in the summer of 2015, the lecture hall renovations have been well under way, with improvements being made to the theater for both its performers and audience. It has remained mostly unchanged since it was originally built in 1986 as a lecture hall for freshman biology. These new changes, according to Mr. Myers, the Arts department Co-Chair, were necessary as the “chairs were failing, and the carpeting on the walls was dirty and, overall, the space needed an update.”
One of the newest and vital changes are the seats. With the addition of new, more comfortable, “theater-style” seats, Will Fynes ’18 said that it will be “easier for the audience to focus” on the performances, as the distraction of discomfort has disappeared.
According to Jaibin Matthews ’19, the renovations were “much needed” addition. Additionally, these new seats will have etched plaques on them, further adding to this community, for each seat not only provides comfort but also honors someone who is special to a member of our Jesuit community.
Elsewhere, the stage itself has been made 24 feet wider and 6 feet taller, cementing over the steps leading up to the stage entrance. This expansion will allow the audience to feel closer to the performance, and Mr. Myers believes that it will “create a very intimate performance venue,” adding to the effect of “front row seats.” He also states that the “tech booth has been radically redesigned and makes working on the lights a lot easier.”
In addition, all of the ceilings and walls have been painted black, a color scheme that goes very well with the new LED stage lighting. All in all, Max Schutze ’19 summarizes that “while these renovations do not instantly make us a better program, the professional atmosphere created by it definitely helps and I am excited for the opportunities that come with it”.
While these are the recent additions affecting the current Jesuit Stage and Film program, it’s only part of the process, as we are still expecting a new lobby and an outdoor patio for the summer season. This new mingling area allows for the audience to convene outside the theater hall during intermissions and after plays, an upgrade from crowded hallways. The lobby will further integrate the lecture hall part of the Jesuit community, making it closer to the main hallways.
As these new renovations take place in the Jesuit Stage and Film program, the expectations of the productions will increase, expectations that the program is more than ready to take in their first spring season performance of “Catch 22,” which will occur in this updated lecture hall later on this year.
