The Exhibitor (Aug-Nov 1948)

22nd in a Series of Studies on Design, Construction and Equipment of Theatres ExVaudeville Balconies Are Dated, Y ou Know By Eliminating Seats And Modifying Slopes They Can Be Renewed IN the good old days when people everywhere lined up in long queues to see movies it was good business practice to cram as many patrons as pos¬ sible into as small a theatre space as possible. Some very uncomfortable seating arrangements resulted, which no longer are good business. To this day, in the balconies of ex-vaudeville and other ancient houses are found chairs from which it is impossible to make out the picture. For seats in the Himalayas of these the¬ atres a lower admission fee is charged, of course, if anybody can be induced to pay for them, which is infrequently. The solution to the problem will probably be less costly than the theatreman realizes. It is a plan dear to modern remodelers — the one calling for the loss of some seats. With sight lines of all seats in focus, row¬ spacing increased, and steep slopes re¬ duced, it is their theory that every seat in the balcony can be occupied sometirrie — at orchestra prices. First, however, the structural supports of the balcony should be inspected for weaknesses and where necessary rein¬ forced or replaced. The stairs, cross-overs, and vomitories probably should be re¬ vamped for easy passage. Originally, the balcony undoubtedly was put in with steep slopes in an effort to pack in as many seats as possible. Orchestra Prices Very often, without much change in basic construction, it is possible to in¬ crease the width of steppings in order to increase row -spacing. If a reduction in the height of the risers is fovmd to be feasible, wide and easy stairs may be installed. With the climb made less an effort, bal¬ cony admission prices might be raised to the level of those of the rest of the house. In the main stairway it is a good plan to use more than one run of stairs, with horizontal passages connecting the differ¬ ent runs. This relieves the total ascent. Further, with ramps put in wherever pos¬ sible, balcony patrons do not realize nor resent the distance that they have to climb to arrive at their seats. A loge section, in which can be set up a better seat than in the balance of the house, may be put in a large balcony by the introduction of a cross aisle. The loge, naturally, will command a higher admis¬ sion price and may be used as a reserved section. In altering the steppings, and especially with the creation of a cross aisle, more than usual attention must be paid to the sight lines. This in order that there should be minimum interference from traffic in the cross aisle. Traffic could block the vision of patrons seated in the first row. If the balcony is without aisle and step lights, these should be included in the remodeling program. At the same time, electric outlets for exit and directional signs, required to move crowds in an orderly and efficient manner, should be put in. Carpets Prescribed The laying down of carpets in the aisles, cross aisles, and vomitories is an effective maneuver in that it will add greatly to the appeal of this section. At times when new carpeting is being installed in the lobby, foyers, or other prominent and well -lighted sections, it is often possible to salvage the old carpeting and relay it to the balcony. Here it may give several more years of service. Aisle carpeting in the balcony is a defi¬ nite hazard unless steps are designed with a cut back in the risers. Cutbacks or slop¬ ing risers not only give a wider tread but also eliminate the possibility that ladies might catch their high heels on vertical risers without nosings. Incidentally, if not already provided for in the old construction, electric outlets should be installed to light at all times the rear section of the balcony. Very often this section is left without lighting during the running of the picture, which condi¬ tion is not conducive to good policing. Dated Lighting Many old-fashioned theatres have enormous hanging lighting fixtures, which must be lowered by winches for relamping and cleaning. Sometimes these are of crystal, of a composition, or of ornamental iron. Modern remodelers like to eliminate these huge ornaments in favor of down lights, large side -wall fixtures, or cove lighting (if the plan calls for a new ceil¬ ing) . Further recommendations on lighting are identical with those found in the (Continued on page 23) Virtually all of the suggestions for perfecting the balcony made in the accompanying article are illustrated here at the Odeon, Victoria, B. C. Slopes are low; stairs give wide passage; steppings provide wide row-spacing and installation of superior chairs; risers are low and sloping; a lodge section has been created; carpeting adds to the appeal; down lights illuminate the rear section and aisle lights the steps. Orchestra prices might be charged. PT-14 PHYSICAL THEATRE DEPARTMENT of THE EXHIBITOR September 22, 1948