Foster Theater in Southeast Portland recently underwent a significant renovation to transform a historic 1910 structure into a modern 250-seat performing arts venue. The primary challenge was designing an acoustic environment prioritized for dance that could also support diverse programming. By implementing a tailored point source system from 1 SOUND, the theater achieved exceptional clarity and consistent coverage without compromising the visual aesthetic of the intimate space. The result is a revitalized community hub with an audio experience that energizes both performers and audiences.
About Foster Theater
Located in Southeast Portland, Foster Theater is a reimagined performing arts venue originally built in 1910. The newly renovated space seats 250 people and serves as a home for dance, music and theater programming. The venue aims to provide an intimate environment that fosters a deep connection between artists and the community.
The Challenge: Acoustic Versatility for Dance
The renovation required a complete rebuild of the theater’s interior. While the venue needed to support a range of programming, the primary design focus was dance performance. This presented specific acoustic challenges:
- Energy vs. Pleasantness: The audio needed to provide high energy for performances while remaining pleasant for the audience.
- Visual Footprint: The system had to be unobtrusive to maintain the aesthetic of the renovated interior.
- Dancer Feedback: Performers moving across the stage required clear, consistent audio monitoring to stay in sync.
John Bottrell, the audio designer and installer for the project, noted the specific requirements for the space. “We needed [the audio experience] to have energy and be pleasant at the same time,” he explained.
The Solution: A Tailored Point Source System
Bottrell determined that the room’s layout was better suited for a point source solution rather than a traditional line array. After researching options, he partnered with 1 SOUND to design a system that matched the theater’s size and acoustic characteristics.
System Specifications:
- Main PA: Two Contour CT28 loudspeakers flown as left and right mains.
- Low Frequency: Two SUB215 subwoofers providing low-end extension.
- Fills: Six Cannon C6 loudspeakers utilized as front fills for close seating and stage fills for performers.
- Lounge Coverage: Four Cannon C4 loudspeakers installed in the upstairs lounge to extend audio to the balcony area.
- Amplification: Powersoft Unica amplifiers.
The Cannon C6 units were strategically placed to ensure that dancers have consistent audio reference as they move across the stage, addressing the critical need for performer clarity.
The Results: Immediate Clarity and Minimal EQ
The installation proved successful immediately upon commissioning. The loudspeakers integrated naturally with the room’s built-in absorption and curtains. The clarity of the 1 SOUND loudspeakers meant that almost no signal processing was required to achieve the desired sound.
“There’s literally no additional EQ. It speaks to how clear the speakers are,” said Bottrell.
Key Outcomes:
- Consistent Coverage: Audio levels and tonal balance remain consistent from the front row to the upstairs lounge.
- Performer Satisfaction: Dancers receive clear audio cues regardless of their position on stage.
- Community Impact: The grand opening received an enthusiastic response from the community, validating the theater as a welcoming home for the arts.
“The system sounded so nice. Everybody was so happy, just blown away,” Bottrell added regarding the opening events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What audio system does Foster Theater use?
Foster Theater uses a 1 SOUND audio system featuring Contour CT28 mains, SUB215 subwoofers and Cannon C6/C4 fills powered by Powersoft Unica amplifiers.
Why did Foster Theater choose a point source system?
The audio designer chose a point source system over a line array because it better suited the intimate layout and acoustic characteristics of the 250-seat venue.
How does the audio system support dance performances?
The system uses Cannon C6 loudspeakers as stage fills to ensure dancers hear music clearly and consistently as they move across the stage.
