The Problem
The auditorium at the Watersmeet Theatre is used as a black box theatre space as well as a cinema for the local community. The power installation for the lighting system dated back to the 60’s and 70’s, there was an incomplete DMX infrastructure; the fixtures were mostly incandescent and beginning to fail. A small investment into LED fixtures had been made over the previous 8 years but overall, the system was not very cost effective to run. As well as increased energy consumption, the venue found themselves spending more and more money on consumables and sub hires.
- Outdated power infrastructure from the 1960s/70s.
- Incomplete DMX infrastructure.
- Failing incandescent theatre lighting equipment.
- High energy consumption.
- Rising costs for consumables and sub hires.
- Need for improved lighting control console and stage lighting systems.
- Demand for modern theatre lighting design and AV systems integration.
Creative Spark’s Solution
The technical manager at the Watersmeet Theatre had a clear vision for the new system. Creative Spark delivered a complete theatre technical solution, including a new power and data infrastructure that offered enhanced flexibility and safety. Our team executed the project within the venue’s strict two-week timeframe, adhering to precise client specifications.
Removal and Replacement:Complete removal of old DMX and power wiring.
Removal and replacement of three front-of-house IWBs.
Installation of Advanced Infrastructure:Installation of custom-built outlets, compliant with BS7671 wiring regulations, for power and data points throughout the performance space.
Installation of new distribution equipment with dedicated switching for each power outlet.
Installation of a new DMX patch rack with separate tie lines for each outlet.
Comprehensive Testing and Certification:Comprehensive testing and NICEIC accredited certification for the new electrical installation.
Supply and Installation of Modern Equipment:Supply and installation of a new lighting control console, LED theatre lighting equipment, a haze machine, and extensive cabling.
Implementation of advanced AV systems integration to ensure seamless operation.
Detailed theatre lighting design and lighting systems installation.
Implementation of theatre sound systems.
Venue audio-visual systems upgrade.
Planning for future lighting equipment maintenance.
Lighting control installation.
Responsible Disposal:Responsible disposal of all old installation components.
Benefits for our client
The Watersmeet Theatre now benefits from a safer, future-proofed lighting system, offering unparalleled flexibility throughout the auditorium. The new LED theatre lighting equipment provides a wider range of lighting design options, including colour mixing, and significantly reduces energy consumption. The advanced lighting control console allows for precise control of the stage lighting systems. Creative Spark’s ongoing support ensures the venue’s continued success.
Ben Terry, Building and Technical Manager, stated,
“The site visit was the most thorough we had received and we were left feeling confident that the quote and specification would cover exactly what the venue required and that no additional costs would be incurred at a later date due to things being missed off or forgotten about. From awarding the contract through to arriving at site we were not left in the dark at any point. Both Dan and Claire were reachable at all times should we have any questions or ideas and any potential problems were discussed with solutions and options offered every time. We felt like nothing was an issue for them. The paper work and RAMS provided were to a high standard and were just as we expected. On the teams arrival for the first day on site it was apparent that the work would be completed to a high standard and undertaken by likeminded and passionate people. All of the work was completed efficiently and the venue was left tidier than it was when work started. I would not hesitate to recommend Creative Spark to any venue looking for technical services, sales or installations; from big theatres to small community theatres and everything in between – they will definitely be in safe hands.”
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