Gradual
renovation over the next twenty years moved the Studio Theatre
into the Boiler House, among other things. In 1997 an extensive
remodeling project was completed. This work included the construction
of a new lobby area with Box Office, Concession Space, and new
patron restrooms. The other major component of remodeling was
the addition of production spaces. These include a well-equipped
scene shop and backstage space for the Studio Theatre. Today,
the Boiler House stands as one of the most interesting and usable
theater spaces in the region.
Equipped with a state of the art computer lighting system and
a large inventory of conventional lighting instruments, the BHT
can handle almost any lighting need and configuration of theatrical
staging. The 1997 renovation also moved the Light Control Booth
inside the historical smoke stack, light board operator a clear
view of the entire Boiler House stage. It is truly one of the
most unique booth configurations you may ever see.
The
Studio Theatre is home to everything from Acting and Directing
classes to Student Productions and Projects. Equipped with its
own lighting and sound systems, the Studio Theatre provides an
independent space for exploration and growth during a student's
tenure at D&E. This space is also home to the local chapter
of Alpha Psi Omega (National Honorary Theatre Fraternity).
Built
in 1997, our scene shop is equipped to work with everything from
foam to steel. Stocked with a wide array of tools and equipment,
it provides the opportunity to work with the tools and materials
used by professional scene shops. Just as the Studio Theatre is
where actors and directors learn their craft, this is where the
real learning takes place for theatre designers and technicians.
Being able to apply the knowledge acquired in class to the practical
world of theatre gives the student a more well-rounded college
theatre experience.
