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Specialties:
Performing Arts
CIRCLE THEATRE ADAPTIVE
REUSE AND RESTORATION
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The
historic Circle Theatre, entered on the National Register,
was designed in an elegant Adams revival style. One of the
first deluxe movie “palaces,” it featured an architectural
screen with glass panels, loges which resembled the famous
Diamond Horseshoe of the Metropolitan Opera House in New York,
and three staircases with mahogany rails and gilt posts. Richly
detailed, Adamesque plaster relief's ornamented the interior
of the hall. The architects converted this space, which had
suffered considerable deterioration of finish and detail,
for the requirements of symphony orchestra performances, including
staging, acoustic excellence, and audience sightlines and
comfort. The adopted program comprised extensive reconfigurations
of the stage and orchestra, modifications of the balcony and
a new expanded lobby. Key to its success was the mandate that
the historic integrity of the structure be maintained.
A new orchestra shell with seating around the perimeter was
integrated into the theater. Renovations included extending
the stage, widening and raising the proscenium. The orchestra
seating level was raised and the pitch of the balcony was
increased.
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Existing auditorium
seating was reconfigured to include handicapped and balcony boxes,
with the exception of rows far under the balcony, which were eliminated
for the lobby expansion.
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Restored
as well were the original white terra cotta facade, storefronts,
windows, lighting, and marquee. The original wall and ceiling
detail of the lobby and hall and box seat balconies were restored.
All seats and light fixtures were repaired and reinstalled.
Awards:
Honor Award - Indianapolis Chapter AIA
Award of Merit - Cleveland Chapter AIA
Reconstruction Award - Building Design & Construction
Commission for Downtown, Inc.- Outstanding Contribution to
the Beautification of Downtown Indianapolis Honor Award
Publications: Architectural Record, April 1985, “Rave Reviews
for Indianapolis Theater Restoration”
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Inland Architect, January-February
1985, “From Cinema to Symphony:
Reprogramming the Circle Theatre”
Preservation News, November 1984, “Circle Theatre Restoration”
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Location:
Indianapolis, Indiana
Original Design: Rubush & Hunter, 1916
Construction Cost: $6,100,000
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