Akustiks provided acoustical and audio video design services for the transformation of a sumptuous 1930s era movie palace, the former Warner Grand Theatre, into a state of the art concert hall for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. To adapt the theater to its new use, the original back wall of the stage was moved 35-feet to the East, adding the depth necessary to accommodate a full symphony orchestra and chorus. The elaborately ornamented interior was meticulously restored to its original appearance. Simultaneously, all of the heating, air conditioning, electrical and plumbing systems were all upgraded to contemporary standards of comfort and quiet. A left /right line array with center subwoofer was added for amplified performances. Built-in digital projection and infrastructure for audio video streaming and recording rounds out the technology upgrades within the theater. Two new wings were added to the building. One on the south contains expansive and inviting new public lobby spaces, while the other on the north houses dressing rooms, public restrooms and other support spaces. Tying it all together is a dedicated fiber based AVoIP network allowing each space to be fed locally or remotely as programming dictates.
Project Location: Milwaukee, WI
Client Name: Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
Project Name: Bradley Symphony Center
Architect: Kahler Slater
Theatre Consultant: Fisher Dachs Associates
Project Year: 2020
Project Size: 158,000 sq ft
Project Cost: US $90,000,000
Gallery
Photos © by Steve Hall, Hall + Merrick Photographers