DG 1110.3.120
DESIGN GUIDE: MUSIC AND DRAMA CENTERS
JANUARY 1981
CHAPTER 4: RIGGING AND STAGE MECHANISMS
ORCHESTRA PIT SET-UPS
F I G U R E 4-3.5
ments of pit design are adequate floor area, free
performance in particular may merit installation
of low-speed geared or screwjack carriages de-
area, overhang and depth.
signed to raise a portion of the stage rather than
building up on it. An apron platform and/or hy-
The best way to establish floor area and pro-
draulic pit lift is also desirable but of question-
portions is to mock up full size the pit layout for
able priority in relation to regular use. The pit lift
the largest anticipated group, and be generous.
The free area should be no less than 10 feet in
is probably more important than the stage lift.
Only exceptional programming and high labor
the short dimension, and preferably 12 to 15 feet
costs can justify the expense. The feasibility of
depending on orchestra size and the depth and
limited travel platform lifts used in combination
proportions required to arrange them around the
with a pit cover and infill units should be ex-
conductor (not in two sections). The overhang
amined if a mixed program of full orchestra, or-
of the stage is very important, one of the means
chestra and chorus, musical drama and/or dance
by which the acoustic impact of the orchestra
can be adjusted. An ample overhang (5 to 8 feet)
is contemplated. Unfortunately, there is a ten-
dency to leave things in place if they can't be
will permit flexibility of arrangement, modula-
altered easily. Correct sightlines must be planned
tion of direct intensity by moving in or out from
for the full extension of the stage. The stage
under, and sufficient space for adjustable reflec-
apron is in need of the same services as the rear
tors, absorbers, and unused instruments. A min-
portion of the stage, and should be provided with
imum depth (height) of 7 feet clear of stage struc-
the same density of rigging, sets, electric pipes,
ture is recommended. The user will usually cover
and circuits.
the pit floor with portable platforms to tailor the
heights of each instrument as needed.
4. Orchestra Pit
This is indeed a valuable facility where any com-
B. SUGGESTED RIGGING SET INVENTORY
bination of music and speech is contemplated.
In addition to the sightline considerations af-
The basic needs of the fly loft are listed in Table
fecting the conductor's position, the key ele-
4-13
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