Construction is set to begin soon for a new Doris Duke Theater at the popular Jacob’s Pillow dance center in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. The original theater was unfortunately destroyed by a fire in 2020, and Jacob’s Pillow has now announced its plans to rebuild a brand new, larger scale theater worth $30 million.
The new design of Doris Duke Theater will allow artists to showcase live performances in an integrated manner with technology. Therefore, the theater will attract new generation artists seeking a year-round space. The new facility will feature integrated indoor/outdoor space for creation, performance, and community engagement.
Design Plans for the New Doris Duke Theater
The new Doris Duke Theater will be double the size of the original 8,500 square foot theater. It will span across 20,000 square feet and have a seating capacity of 230, with a focus on dance performances. In addition to dance, it will also host other events and residences with a range of stage configurations.
The new Doris Duke Theater was designed with building circulation spaces positioned around multiple entrances and exits. All entry and exit points are linked by two lobbies, positioned on either side of the building. The western lobby will function as a welcoming area for entrants, which is referred to as the “artist quadrangle”. This area also includes spaces for talks and exhibitions. While the eastern lobby will provide a space for artists to rehearse which can also serve as a secondary reception venue.
The new theater will also feature improved audio and lighting capacities, with flexible locations for stage management and sound available on the property. The design team has also included windows and skylights to bring in natural light, with curtains to darken the areas when necessary. There will be a digital spatial audio system to track dancers alongside moving sound images, enabling interactive video content and the integration of live and recorded performances.
The design team for the new Doris Duke Theater development includes Marvel as the architect of record and landscape architect. Charcoalblue is the project’s consultant for theater and acoustics. Additionally, Jeffrey Gibson will handle consultations on indigenous design values and the project’s relationship to the homeland of the Mohican people.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new Doris Duke Theater?
The new Doris Duke Theater is a theater that is being built in place of the original Doris Duke Theater that burned down in 2020. It will be larger and more advanced with integrated technology to allow for live performances by new generation artists seeking a year-round space.
Where is the new Doris Duke Theater located?
The new Doris Duke Theater will be located at the Jacob’s Pillow dance center in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.
How large is the new Doris Duke Theater?
The new Doris Duke Theater will be double the size of the original 8,500 square foot theater. It will span across 20,000 square feet and have a seating capacity of 230, with a focus on dance performances.
What is the design of the new Doris Duke Theater?
The new Doris Duke Theater was designed with building circulation spaces positioned around multiple entrances and exits. All entry and exit points are linked by two lobbies, positioned on either side of the building. In addition, there will be improved audio and lighting capacities, with flexible locations for stage management and sound available on the property. The design team has also included windows and skylights to bring in natural light, with curtains to darken the areas when necessary. There will be a digital spatial audio system to track dancers alongside moving sound images.
Who are the members of the design team?
The design team for the new Doris Duke Theater development includes Marvel as the architect of record and landscape architect. Charcoalblue is the project’s consultant for theater and acoustics. Additionally, Jeffrey Gibson will handle consultations on indigenous design values and the project’s relationship to the homeland of the Mohican people.
What will be the capacity of the new Doris Duke Theater?
The new Doris Duke Theater will have a seating capacity of 230.
What other events will take place at the new Doris Duke Theater?
In addition to dance performances, the new Doris Duke Theater will also host other events and residences with a range of stage configurations.
What is the cost of the new Doris Duke Theater?
The new Doris Duke Theater is a $30 million project.
When will construction begin on the new Doris Duke Theater?
Construction will begin soon on the new Doris Duke Theater, according to Jacob’s Pillow.
