Historic Leeds theatre set for major transformation as huge upgrade gets underway
Work is now underway on a major upgrade at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) in Leeds.
The renovation will enhance its renowned Riley Theatre and transform its lighting studio into an interactive digital space.
The work forms part of a wider digital refurbishment which will connect the upgraded stage lighting with networked audiovisual systems, digital controls, recording technology and live-streaming capability, creating an advanced environment for performances, teaching and research.
This year NSCD is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and since it was founded, it has evolved into one of the UK’s leading centres for contemporary dance and is currently the only institution to offer conservatoire-level professional training outside London.
The Riley Theatre is situated at the heart of NSCD and was initially a synagogue.
The Grade II listed building retains many of its original features including a vaulted ceiling, carved pews and candelabra.
It was adapted for contemporary dance performances in the 1990s and now attracts thousands of visitors every year who enjoy a range of performances from emerging talent to established touring dance companies.
Sharon Watson MBE DL, CEO & Principal of Northern School of Contemporary Dance, said: “This is a hugely exciting project that forms part of the school’s wider vision to modernise its facilities.
"Ultimately it will create a contemporary space that supports digital innovation and offers a significantly enhanced experience for students, staff and audiences, in a safe, secure and well-connected environment for both learning and performances.
“In addition, the upgraded electrical systems will support enhanced stage lighting, audiovisual technology, digital teaching methods and live streaming capabilities, allowing performances to reach wider audiences whilst giving students access to facilities that better reflect professional performance environments, both today and in the future.”
Yorkshire-based building services engineering company GW Power is delivering the specialist electrical infrastructure package, working alongside audiovisual installation specialist GVAV Ltd, to support the introduction of next-generation stage lighting, projection, recording and digital technology.
Rob Dixon, of GW Power, said: “It’s an honour to be working on this project within a hugely impressive and historic building on behalf of such a well-known dance school that has a superb local, national and even international reputation. It further builds on our expertise in delivering the specialist electrical infrastructure that underpins modern education in creative environments.
“Once complete, it will create a technologically advanced space for teaching, rehearsals and performances, whilst reducing energy use and ongoing maintenance requirements.
“The project has also been designed with flexibility in mind, ensuring the school has the electrical capacity and infrastructure to adapt to future technologies as teaching and performance continue to evolve.”