OUR SERVICES
THEATRE DESIGN
Theatre owners/managers have all heard the stories about architects foisting “expressive” designs upon their clients, while ignoring the most basic of theatrical operational considerations... that is not how act1 works. With a focus on the flow of work behind the scenes, our designs save time/money during operation, while creating beautiful venues.
We are good listeners. We “get” theatre.
THEATRE RENOVATION
Renovation always includes unique challenges. Old buildings can present circumstances which make re-design difficult. Act1 is wellexperienced in matters of renovation...but we know our limits too. We know whom to call when we have a ”tricky” structural situation.
CODE COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS
Particularly in older buildings, compliance with the National Building Code of Canada can
be challenging. Act1 can help in many ways: preparing exit plans for your facility, providing a comprehensive analysis and suggestion, and engaging with Authorities Having Jurisdiction.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Projects such as imagery for set design, theatre programmes, building signage or websites are all part of act1 repertoire.
SCENOGRAPHY BASE DRAWINGS
Act1 produces accurate detailed scenographic base drawings (plans/sections) and digital models for tech producers & set designers.
FUNDRAISING
Fundraisning has changed. Funders now expect a clear outline of what is being funded and how it is being acknowledged. We are not fundraisers, but we can provide imagery, costing advice, and lists of fundraising tokens. These services are important when dealing with governmental bodies.
SET DESIGN
Wes Babcock’s set design work is well known in Canada. Wes’ work is always artfully collaborative. His work is practical, affordable, and buildable.
LIGHTING DESIGN
Working with new set design, or in establishing a recurring house plot, act1 provides professional lighting plots and paperwork for a show or forever. Plots indicate luminaire locations, gels, gobos, and DMX addressing.
Act1 is also experienced in specifying architectural lighting and lighting systems. We have existing relationships with specialist firms to ensure their integration within your venue.
TECHNICAL DIRECTING
When considering where to focus the budget to make a large impact now and long into the future, knowing where the tech is headed is key. We have in-house expertise to assist with specifying new inventory, and collaborative relationships with specialist technical firms to whom we can help define and communicate your needs for large installations.
ACCESSIBILITY AUDITTING
Act1 can do a fastidious study of the many dimensions of accessibility, including mobility issues (patrons, workers, performers), auditory concerns, as well as issues around visual impairment and neuro-divergence. Accessibility is an important fundraising cosideration.
HERITAGE APPRAISALS
Some older theatre buildings have heritage status, or would like to achieve such a ranking. With our heritage consultant, act1 will visit your facility, take measurements and photographs and prepare a Heritage Report mentioning
the various character defining elements of the theatre. Heritage conservation is an important part of any fund-raising campaign.