Williams Ross Architects led a consortium of theatrical and engineering consultants in this major consultancy for the State Government and Victorian Association of Performing Arts Centres in which we developed design and technical benchmarks for proscenium, ‘other format’ theatres and concert venues. The performing arts industry was consulted in developing the benchmarks.
Facility audits of 30 performing arts centre venues throughout Victoria were conducted to report on their condition and recommend upgrades to meet the recommended benchmark, including a detailed audit report and cost estimate.
The three-volume report was adopted as part of the assessment criteria for performance venue funding applications to State Government. Over 2,000 copies of the Benchmarks have been distributed throughout Australia and internationally, becoming the recognised reference for design and technical fitout of performing arts facilities.
Director Virginia Ross was lead consultant, author and editor of the First Edition and co-author with Marshall Day Entertech of the Third (current) Edition.