Marnkutyi Parirna Theatre - An acoustically adaptable theatre design

Most schools will only embark on one significant arts complex in their lifetime. As with any space constructed for educational purposes, there is an appeal for accommodating a wide range of educational experiences and uses in that single space. This however often contrasts with venue needs such as the acoustic design needs to accommodate multiple uses. Quality performance venues are typically acoustically fine-tuned for a single use as differing uses can have competing requirements. This can limit performance outcomes when designing a static space, which can leave schools with theatres which are either great at one thing or mediocre at many... acoustically speaking. However, we aspired to deliver more than this for Trinity College. The role of the acoustician, theatre designer and architect became paramount to the venue's successful delivery. Achieving acoustic excellence and aesthetic beauty for a creative space requires a holistic understanding of engineering, architectural design, and artistic vision. Flexibility and adaptability were key to the venue operation, as was ease of operation. This paper presents a case study that includes the combination of music, art and science in the delivery of the 500-seat adaptable theatre known as the Marnkutyi Parirna Theatre in South Australia.