Fort Caswell - Hatch Auditorium
Project Background
Hatch Auditorium, a historic venue at Fort Caswell, had not undergone a major renovation or technology upgrade since the 1980s. Over the years, production teams faced significant challenges, including persistent power issues, an ever-present hum in the audio system, and outdated, ineffective room lighting. These problems impacted both the technical quality and overall experience for audiences and presenters alike.
Each summer, Hatch Auditorium serves as the primary venue for BeDoTell, a North Carolina Baptist Convention ministry that hosts over 1,000 kids per week for 10+ weeks of summer camp. In addition, the auditorium is used throughout the year for ministry events, live concerts, and other community gatherings. Ensuring the space was fully operational and optimized before the summer season was critical.
Project Scope
Understanding the challenges and the need for a high-performance venue, 20-20 was brought in to execute a comprehensive overhaul of Hatch Auditorium’s production systems. The scope of work included:
Architectural Lighting Overhaul: We replaced outdated lighting with modern, energy-efficient fixtures to improve visibility, ambiance, and functionality.
Acoustic Treatment: We installed new acoustic panels designed to enhance speech intelligibility and optimize the room’s sound dynamics for both spoken word and musical performances.
PA System Enhancement: We repositioned and reinforced the PA system to ensure even coverage and clarity throughout the venue.
Motorized Stage Lighting: Professional-grade, motorized stage lighting was added to elevate production capabilities for performances and presentations.
Front-of-House Equipment Upgrade: We revamped the control systems, ensuring seamless operation and enhanced user control over the venue’s audio, video, and lighting elements.
Challenges & Solutions
Power & Noise Issues: Persistent electrical hum and instability in the audio system were traced to outdated wiring and grounding issues. We reworked power distribution and provided proper isolation to eliminate noise and ensure reliable performance.
Time Constraints: With a tight deadline leading up to the summer season, our team worked efficiently to complete the project on schedule, ensuring no disruption to BeDoTell’s programming.
Balancing Historic Integrity & Modern Upgrades: Given Hatch Auditorium’s history, we carefully integrated modern technology without compromising the venue’s aesthetic and architectural integrity.
Results & Impact
The transformation of Hatch Auditorium resulted in a dramatically improved experience for both presenters and audiences. Key outcomes include:
Elimination of Hum & Power Issues: The audio system now operates with pristine clarity, free of interference and technical disruptions.
Enhanced Production Capabilities: Upgraded lighting and audio systems provide a professional-grade experience suitable for high-level performances and ministry events.
Optimized Acoustics: Improved room acoustics have made a significant difference in intelligibility and sound balance, benefiting both speech and music presentations.
Smoother Event Operations: The new front-of-house control system offers streamlined operation for production teams, allowing them to manage events more efficiently.
Positive Feedback from Users: Event organizers and attendees have praised the improvements, noting a remarkable difference in audio clarity, lighting quality, and overall ambiance.
Conclusion
Through a strategic and carefully executed upgrade, 20-20 successfully revitalized Hatch Auditorium, equipping it for the demands of modern performances and ministry events. This project stands as a testament to our expertise in high-performance venue solutions and our commitment to delivering impactful results for mission-driven spaces.
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