Technical Design Solutions for Theatre

Fire Safety Handbook

DWphineas Perkins

 

Through the years, many configurations of performance and audience areas have evolved within theatres in order to provide a better relationship between the audience and performer. Today, in many theatres, these configurations are meant to be flexible and are reestablished for each production. Each individual arrangement should be reviewed with the provisions of fire safety codes in mind. This article provides a checklist to maintain the public’s safety during theatrical performances, particularly whenever the seating layout is temporary. For the most part, these are common-sense issues.

SEATING

Though the local fire authority usually posts a “maximum occupant load” for each theatre space, its true ...