Artists list shortcomings in Piano's theatre proposal

An open-air space at the site of the former Opera House could not be used year round and could be prone to noise pollution, artists concluded today.

Artists from various disciplines came together at St James Cavalier today to discuss Renzo Piano’s plans for the ruins.

They said that it would not be possible to use such a space year round because of the elements. Moreover, neighbours might be disturbed by the noise it produced and performances could be hindered by the noise coming from around it, such as from fireworks and outside festivities.

They said that the current plans also did not cater sufficiently for public areas which were associated with the theatre experience. All these factors would have a direct impact on the financial sustainability of the space.

Artists commented favourably on the flexibility of the space, which could be adapted to various art forms. However, flexibility would be much improved if the issue of a roof was resolved.

They noted the serious lack of backstage and storage facilities, which constituted an endemic problem in all existing theatres. They also suggested that the underground access point into Parliament from the Yellow Garage be extended to the performance space, thereby adding to the space below.

Questions were raised about technical aspects of the stage, lighting and sound. In addition, artists highlighted the fact that few rehearsals could take place in the open-air, therefore a space for rehearsals the size of the stage had to be provided elsewhere.

Various artists expressed the opinion that any investment should go towards a proper multifunction performance space. Although the proposed project was interesting, it did not contribute to solving the huge shortcomings found in other theatres.

Indeed, it repeated shortcomings and created others of its own. This issue was raised in particular for dance shows and orchestral concerts.

The forum concluded that the performance space should not be seen as a monument, but as a dynamic cultural focus, essential to the successful development of the City Gate Project.