Syracuse, NY, Jan. 19, 2012: With the opening of the Parker Arts, Culture and Events Center (PACE) in Parker, Colo. late in 2011, audiences looked forward to an exciting season of more than 60 performances of 28 different shows.

The inaugural season includes productions of A Christmas Story and Annie, the premier of an original musical, a custom light show created by Luma, the Irish dance troupe Direct from Ireland-Celtic Nights, and an interpreted production of Stuart Little for hearing and deaf audiences.

The brand-new facility’s 536-seat theatre—one of two performance spaces in the extensive center—can host this diverse series of events because of the easy-to-use automated rigging system provided by J. R. Clancy, Inc., and installed by Barbizon Light of the Rockies. Barbizon’s Rick Loudenburg was on the design team as the theatrical rigging and lighting integrator with Semple Brown Design Architects, David L Adams and Associates and Shaw Construction.

The new theatre features 14 Clancy PowerLift automated hoists, including eight variable-speed and six fixed-speed hoists. PowerLifts provide many built-in safety features, including a dual-braking system that ensures reliable stops, with the ability to hold loads securely for long periods.

Clancy’s popular Altus digital controller was the system of choice for the project. Designed for mid-level backstage rigging systems with up to 48 hoists, Altus allows operators to create up to 200 cues with different speeds and targets for each hoist. Its 12-inch graphic touch screen makes this an easy console to learn to use, even for crewmembers with limited backstage experience. Altus gives PACE the flexibility to stage impressive set changes and dramatic visual effects.

In addition to the PowerLifts, Altus will control the H&H 462 draw curtain machine on the front curtain.

“We originally planned to go with a more expensive controller, but Altus was introduced while we were designing the system,” said Dan Obenhaus, senior project manager for Barbizon Light. “Altus did everything we needed, it was easy to use, and it brought the price of the project down. It was good for everyone.”

“We love the rigging system,” said Shaun Albrechtson, technical director at PACE. “It’s very versatile and easy to use. We really enjoy that we don’t have to worry so much about weights. It’s freed us up from the mundane aspects of the standard rigging system. The safety features alone are phenomenal—it has everything calculated through the computer, and everything operating smoothly is just a comforting feeling.”

The theatre also features a Wenger Diva Acoustical Shell, providing full-stage acoustics for optimum onstage sound and excellent sound projection to the audience. Lightweight and easy to install, the Diva Shell includes overhead panels that can be raised and lowered with Clancy’s PowerLift rigging, and stored in the fly loft when not required for the performance.

Overall, Obenhaus said, the project went as smoothly as he had expected it would. “It was a good experience,” said “I’ve been working with Clancy for well over 15 years on different projects, and this was a project that stood up to all the other experiences I’ve had with them, which have always been good.”

More information about J. R. Clancy is available at (800) 836-1885, or at http://www.jrclancy.com.

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January, 2012: Flexible stage and seating arrangements have proved their worth at two busy performing arts venues in the USA

Performing arts facilities never give top billing to their staging platforms and audience seating, but as two facilities in the USA illustrate, this unsung equipment can play vital roles in supporting flexible programming and memorable performances.

"Around 50% of our interior structure is mobile," explains Tom Hamilton, technical operations director at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA), which is located in Cerritos, California, 20 miles southwest of Los Angeles. "It's like a puzzle we can assemble in different ways, including arena, theatre-in-the-round, and cabaret configurations," he adds.

Designed by architect Barton Myers and planned by Theatre Projects Consultants, CCPA is one of the most flexible theatres in the world, following in the traditions of the changeable theatres of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Hydraulic lifts and air casters allow the auditorium to take on five different configurations. Balcony seating is fixed, but floor seating consists of movable wagons that can be raised, lowered or removed completely. Large towers containing the box seats can be angled to face the stage in a number of positions. Overhead ceiling panels are also movable to suit different acoustical requirements.

The stage can be transformed into various sizes, either manually or by electronic controls. This unique flexibility is supported by an extensive inventory of Wenger staging — approximately 100 staging decks, both 1.2 x

2.5m and 1.2 x 1.2m in size, with interchangeable legs ranging from 20cm to 100cm.
"The largest setup is our arena configuration, where we build a 15 x 10m stage 100cm high," Hamilton reveals. "We also build band risers for pop and country shows."

Even when in the arena setup, CCPA still owns enough additional platforms to simultaneously serve other areas of the facility. "Because it's so flexible, we also use these platforms in our lobby for banquet head tables or podiums, in our conference room and theatre, or even outdoors in our garden and fountain courts," says Hamilton, adding that the platforms are easy for two people to handle.

Versatile architecture and flexible equipment have enabled CCPA to adapt to changing market and client needs, re-inventing itself more easily and targeting a wider variety of events than would be possible with a fixed configuration.

Most of the performing arts programming is during the autumn, winter and early spring. "Given the realities of our programming budget, we decided to start our summer season a little earlier in order to get bigger pop music acts that are touring," continues Hamilton. Some cabaret-style concerts are held in the more intimate Sierra Room on a 6 x 7m stage.
CCPA is also targeting more rental business, particularly during the spring months. The facility has become popular for high school proms as a result of the flexible configuration options and layout, including large banquet space and dance floor. Twelve proms are already booked during a six-week period in 2012.

In the past, CCPA's proximity to Los Angeles made it a popular location for TV specials, commercials and Hollywood movie sets. "I don't know of any other facility our size — less than 2,000 seats — with such flexible configuration options," notes Hamilton. "We've been extremely pleased with our staging and have increased our inventory over the years, which is a compliment in itself. We'll continue choosing Wenger."

Adams State College

"Uncomfortable seating was everyone's biggest complaint — the old seats in Leon Memorial Recital Hall were terrible," recalls Dr Tracy Doyle, music department chair at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colorado. At this campus venue for recitals by students, faculty and guest artists, along with concerts by local bands, the seating was original from the 1960s.

During a week-long selection process, a team of college personnel sat in sample seats from five manufacturers. Doyle says comfort was the main issue, followed by attractiveness. "Wenger was our favourite from day one and that did not change — it was unanimous," she explains, adding that she believes the higher seat back contributes to the comfort. "We also liked the sophisticated look — different to a lot of the traditional auditorium seating." They selected light tan upholstery with orange accent colours.
Other finish upgrades in the hall's renovation included new paint, carpets and tiles, along with new lighting and a recording booth. Davis Partnership Architects was the architecture firm.

Testing ensured the new seating would not alter the hall's acoustics; after a recent piano recital, the consensus opinion was that the acoustics had actually improved.
To minimise noisy distractions, seats feature a proprietary lifting mechanism that ensures extremely quiet operation.

"The response to our new seating has been overwhelmingly positive," concludes Doyle. "Everyone's raved about them — both the comfort level and attractiveness."
Along with staging and seating solutions, Wenger fits out performing arts facilities across the USA and around the world with a wide range of other equipment, including acoustical shells, choral risers, storage cabinets, music stands, and a full line of music posture chairs.

Enhance the Acoustics and Aesthetics of any Venue

Wenger offers a full line of acoustical shells to fit every performance space.

Whether you have a small auditorium, gymnasium or performing arts center, Wenger has the acoustical treatment for you. The Diva Acoustical Shell is, without a doubt, the most advanced full stage acoustical shell of its kind... visually stunning and audibly superior for your full auditorium needs. Wenger's newest acoustical solution is the Forte Acoustical Shell, which enhances acoustics for both the ensemble and audience in small-to-medium sized performance spaces. The Legacy Acoustical Shell combines portability and ease of set up with acoustical projection in a variety of venues. Contact your Wenger representative today to design the right shell set for your space.

December 15, 2011: Syracuse, NY — Mike Murphy Becomes Top Exec at J.R. Clancy

After 30 years with J.R. Clancy, Bob Theis will step down from his position as chief executive officer on December 31, 2011. Theis will continue until July 2012 as an advisor to the board of Wenger Corporation, the company that owns J.R. Clancy.

Mike Murphy, who has served as president of Clancy since 2009, will become the company’s top executive on January 1, 2012. He will retain the title of president.

In his 14 years with Clancy, Murphy has been integrally involved in sales, project management, new product development, and in supervision of some of the company’s largest and most complex projects. He also developed and implemented the company’s quality management program, which led to the company achieving ISO 9001 registration.

“Under Bob’s leadership, J.R. Clancy has grown significantly in capabilities and in the strength of its business practices,” Murphy said. “He established an important company goal that has become our mantra: Make Our Partners Successful. Thanks to his commitment to best practices, Clancy has been an ISO 9001-registered company since 2002, and we are listed as one of the fastest growing companies in the United States by Inc. magazine. Bob can be very proud of the things he accomplished at Clancy.”

“I’ve worked with Mike since 1997, and I can honestly say that he’s more than qualified to take on the leadership of J.R. Clancy,” Theis said. “Mike and our management team are the best in the industry – there are none better.”

Looking ahead, Murphy plans to maintain Clancy’s leadership in product innovation and project management. “We’re looking forward to introducing some dynamic new products, and expanding our international business in the coming years,” Murphy said. “These are exciting times at J.R. Clancy.”

More information about J.R. Clancy is available at www.jrclancy.com, or at (800) 836-1885.

November 16, 2011: No Shell Game: Ensuring Auditorium Acoustics —

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November 14, 2011: Movers & shakers: Christopher Simpson of Wenger Corp.

Title: CEO

Age: 51

What's new: Simpson is right in tune with his new role as president and CEO of Owatonna-based Wenger Corp., whose products for music and theater education and performing arts are in classrooms and theaters across the country and around the world.

It helps that Simpson arrives at Wenger after 13 years at Pella Corp., the Iowa-based window and door manufacturer that, like Wenger, is privately held, in its third generation of family ownership and is professionally managed and governed.

"I wanted to lead an organization but couldn't imagine myself doing that in an organization that did not have a strong brand and a focus on doing whatever possible to satisfy customers," said Simpson, who spent 13 years at Whirlpool Corp. before joining Pella. "That's what I grew up in, that's what I found here with Wenger."

Wenger, with 500 employees, does most of its manufacturing locally, aside from a recent acquisition in Syracuse, N.Y., that makes rigging systems and equipment. 

While Owatonna is a fair piece from the bright lights of Broadway -- though it did supply products to a theater in Lincoln Center -- Wenger sells around the world, with salespeople scattered throughout North America and a sales office in Asia. 

The company also offers athletic equipment storage products that have seen rapid growth, said Simpson, a Michigan native who has an MBA from the University of Michigan.

Wenger's primary customers are K-12 schools, colleges and universities and professional performing arts centers, including the Cowles Center for the Performing Arts in Minneapolis, the University of St. Thomas' new athletic facility and Carleton College's new arts center.

Q How has the recession affected Wenger?

A Wenger has done a good job of expanding into new segments while growing our share in our traditional business. We are not down very much [from 2009 peak]. We're focusing on market share, maintaining a strong balance sheet and profit outlook.

Q Did you recognize the Wenger name from having played in band?

A I played sports in my high school days and was not in the band or performing arts. My kids were and they all knew the brand name Wenger. I had to do some research.

Q You're commuting?

A We've been living in Pella. It's 10,000 people, a great little small town. My wife was so excited to be moving up here. We're going to live in the southern suburbs of the Twin Cities and I'll do a commute down to Owatonna.

October 24, 2011: Christopher S. Simpson Named Wenger Corporation's President — Owatonna, Minn. -- The Wenger Corporation formally announced that Christopher S. (Chris) Simpson has accepted the position of President & CEO, replacing William L. (Bill) Beer who retired October 14, 2011.

Over the last six years, Bill Beer guided Wenger through both good times and difficult times, always with a steady hand and always with personal and professional integrity and a strict adherence to Wenger’s core values. Wenger has been fortunate to have had Bill Beer lead our business during these challenging times.

Over 18 months ago, Bill Beer informed the Wenger Board of Directors of his intent to retire in 2011. Bill worked closely with the Board to accomplish a smooth succession process and we are pleased to announce Chris Simpson as President & CEO of the Wenger Corporation.

Chris Simpson has had an extensive and successful career with the Pella Corporation in Pella, Iowa, and with the Whirlpool Corporation in Benton Harbor, Michigan.

Most recently, Chris served as Pella Corporation’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales. Chris joined Pella Corporation in October of 1997 as Vice President, Direct Sales, and has held several different positions of increasing responsibilities since then. Prior to his current role, he served as Senior Group Vice President and had responsibility for all aspects of Pella’s Architect Series® and Designer Series® wood product lines, as well as the Entry Systems Division.

Prior to joining Pella, Chris was with Whirlpool Corporation in Benton Harbor, Michigan, for 13 years where he served in many areas of increasing responsibility in various Whirlpool divisions and locations. His last position was the General Manager of the Whirlpool Brand, where as a Corporate Officer, he was responsible for the strategic direction and all the marketing activities of the company’s largest brand.

Chris earned his B.S. from Michigan State University in East Lansing and his M.B.A. with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Michigan.

Chris and his wife Judy have four children and will be moving from Iowa to Minnesota in the coming months.

August 5, 2011: Affordable, Eco-Friendly Music Storage Solution: New Edge^™ Instrument Storage System from Wenger Corp. — Owatonna, Minn. -- The Edge^™ Instrument Storage System from Wenger Corp. offers an economical, flexible solution for storing band/orchestra instruments and garments. It’s engineered to be easily customized to fit your space, needs and budget, while reducing your environmental impact.

The Edge system consists of a column/wall-bracket framework that reduces material requirements and associated costs while enabling on-site installation by the customer. The space-saving design incorporates shared walls between cabinets and no back panels, reducing floor space and linear feet requirements.

"For the quality I could see and feel, I knew the Edge system would be a much more feasible purchase than other cabinets," says Jonathan Grimsby, Director of Bands at Fridley High School in Fridley, Minn.

"I also thought the Edge system offered some advantages including saving valuable space in our band room because of the shared walls between cabinets." Grimsby explains, "Every inch of space in a band room is so valuable." He adds, "And because it ships disassembled, our shipping costs are reduced."

Various compartment shapes and sizes are available, along with more than 40 column configurations in 68" (1.7 m) or 84" (2.1 m) heights. Based on your unique requirements, Wenger helps design the optimal Edge system to fit current storage needs, optimize traffic flow patterns and plan for the future.

Constructed with high-quality materials, Edge cabinets provide the long-term durability customers expect from Wenger. Wall panels are ¾" (19mm) thick industrial-grade composite wood with a polyester laminate finish. Institutional-grade hardware provides strength and durability. Edge cabinets feature the same 10-year warranty as Wenger’s regular instrument storage cabinets, now trademarked as UltraStor^™ cabinets.

Seven exterior color combinations are available, all with Oyster interior color for improved optimal visibility of stored contents. Door options include compartment doors in wood or grille, or a door-ready design that accepts doors at a later date.

Four core material choices are available, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) wood options. The Edge system is GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified^® and GREENGUARD Children & Schools^sm Certified.

New Music Storage Cabinets

The Edge^™ Instrument Storage System offers economical storage of band/orchestra instruments and garments, easily customized to fit your needs and budget. Column/wall-bracket design reduces material costs and saves space. GREENGUARD Certified with four core materials, including FSC wood. 10-year warranty.

August 4, 2011: Wenger Corporation Acquires Rigging Company, J.R. Clancy — Owatonna, Minn. -- Effective August 1, 2011, the Wenger Corporation, based in Owatonna, MN signed an agreement to acquire J.R. Clancy, Inc. based in Syracuse, NY.

This is exciting news for employees and business partners of both companies. The Wenger Corporation and J.R. Clancy are long standing privately owned businesses with shared values, dedicated and loyal employees, great brands, strong heritages, and great reputations in the market place.

It is our intent to operate these companies as complementary businesses. J.R. Clancy, led by Bob Theis and Mike Murphy, will remain J.R. Clancy. Wenger, led by Bill Beer, will remain Wenger. The headquarters of J.R. Clancy will remain in Syracuse and the headquarters for Wenger will remain in Owatonna.

Clearly, we anticipate that each business will benefit in the form of increased sales, broader depth and breadth of products, development of new markets, shared leverage and resources, and shared best practices. We are excited about joining these two great companies. This is a great transaction for both companies. Even more importantly, it is a great transaction for the employees of both companies!

May 25, 2011: Rebuilding years in the MIAC — Owatonna, Minn. -- Keeping up with St. Thomas just got more difficult with the school's new $52 million athletic complex, the latest in a conference-wide building boom.

"I thought, 'Wow, it doesn't get any better than this,' " Vidor said. "It's the nicest one I've ever seen. It was definitely a factor."

MIAC schools are part of NCAA Division III, which doesn't allow athletic scholarships. But that hasn't stopped conference members from pouring millions of dollars into athletic facilities in recent years.

The crown jewels are St. Thomas' new $52 million Anderson Athletic and Recreation Complex and Macalester's $45 million Leonard Center, which opened three years ago. Both complexes have an arena for varsity sports such as basketball and volleyball plus a swimming pool, indoor track and a workout center to rival any health club.

Beyond the league's two newest facilities, there's also a $5 million football stadium at Gustavus Adolphus; a $12 million project at St. John's to expand and improve athletic facilities; a new locker room facility for football, soccer, baseball and track at Concordia (Moorhead); and a track and field/soccer complex at St. Mary's completed in 2009 and home to the 2010 conference track and field championships. And those are just the highlights of projects completed since 2007.

Within the past decade, almost every conference member has undertaken a major athletic building project. Carleton built an indoor athletic complex, Hamline has a renovated football stadium and workout center and Augsburg opened its Kennedy Center, with a wrestling training facility and fitness center, in 2006. St. Olaf's indoor track facility, completed in '02, helped persuade highly successful Gophers men's coach Phil Lundin to make the move to Northfield and head the Oles' track program.

"I think it's definitely a great positive," MIAC Executive Director Dan McKane said of the recent athletic improvements. "It creates a lot of excitement. It also does create a bit of an arms race, kind of like watching what your neighbors are doing, and feeling you have to keep up with the Joneses."

Attraction for all students

There is a notable difference between the facilities "arms race" between Division III and the mega-facilities that house Division I athletics. In D-III, the facilities, such as fitness centers and indoor tracks, are open to the entire student body and are seen as an enhancement to recruiting all students, not just top varsity athletes.

"Certainly, we knew a new building would help us recruit athletes, but we also knew it would help us recruit students," said Laurie Hamre, Macalester vice president of student affairs. "Our facilities prior to this were abysmal. We couldn't offer our students any activity for fitness."

St. Thomas officials say their new complex was built with the same intention, but the Tommies' new structure has created significantly more concern about keeping a level playing field within the conference. UST has all the bells and whistles, such as Jumbotron scoreboards and lavish locker rooms; Macalester built its facility without a football locker room, leaving the team's center underneath the football stadium.

Macalester has struggled to compete in most sports, so much so in football that the program left the MIAC to play an independent schedule eight years ago.

St. Thomas is a different story. The Tommies contend annually in almost every sport, and this past season captured the D-III national men's basketball championship, went undefeated in winning the MIAC football title and captured the league's all-sports title for both genders. Mark Dienhart, formerly the Gophers men's athletic director and now the St. Thomas executive vice president and chief administrative officer, said school officials are "extremely sensitive about how people perceive [the new athletic complex]. ... I'm pretty sure no one is saying Macalester is overemphasizing athletics."

When it comes to St. Thomas, many probably agree with legendary St. John's football coach John Gagliardi, a close friend of Dienhart who said, at least partly in jest: "That doggone Dienhart. ... He should have never left the University of Minnesota. He's in a key position, and he really stresses athletics."

Dienhart said winning athletic teams are, and should be, "a part of our culture," because it sends a message about St. Thomas' dedication to excellence on all fronts. Conference schools all share that philosophy, although some clearly put more emphasis, and dollars, into athletics.

St. John's athletic director Tom Stock said his school's current facilities upgrade are predicated at least in part on staying competitive in all sports. "We didn't need $52 million, because we started from a better base," Stock said. "But everyone in the league has to upgrade to maintain a competitive level."

St. Thomas is the largest MIAC school with about 5,500 undergrad students, and funds for the center came largely from a $60 million donation by Lee and Penny Anderson. That donation is part of a $500 million, seven-year campus fundraising drive that is now only $44 million shy of its goal with 18 months remaining.

Are Tommies too strong?

That sort of financial wherewithal, symbolized by the athletic center, is causing some concern among rival coaches.

Augsburg football coach Frank Haege said if he's recruiting against St. Thomas and facilities are the top priority for the youngster, the Tommies will almost certainly prevail. Bethel football coach Steve Johnson, whose team defeated St. Thomas in last year's NCAA playoffs, said he has already lost at least one top recruit to the Tommies because of facilities.

Both coaches say they have to sell prospective recruits on their school being the right fit, academically and socially as well as athletically.

"Certain kids come to Augsburg because it's in the heart of the city, with a lot of culture going on," Haege said. "They don't necessarily care if your fieldhouse is as big as somebody else's."

Said Johnson: "Each school has its niche. ... We don't recruit on facilities."

But the unanswered question is whether St. Thomas' glitzy new complex will attract an inordinate share of elite D-III athletes, and tip the level playing field. Bloomington Jefferson senior Marcus Alipate attracted interest from several D-I basketball programs, but chose St. Thomas.

He said his decision was based on numerous factors, including athletic facilities at St. Thomas that he said matched what he saw at the lower-level D-I programs he visited.

"They have Division I facilities at a Division III school," said Alipate, whose older brother, Moses, is a quarterback for the Gophers. "The technology, the workout areas and locker rooms. It's phenomenal."

For McKane, those words are reason to be wary about a level playing field.

"It's something on my mind," the executive director said. "There's no doubt that when you're recruiting the best kids, they want to compete in shiny new facilities. ... I do worry about the viability of budgets at some of our schools. I think other schools are definitely feeling pressure."

March 23, 2011: New Forest Stewardship Council Certification and Expanded GREENGUARD-Certified Product Offering — Owatonna, Minn. -- To help promote healthier environments and the stewardship of natural resources, Wenger Corporation has expanded the number of its products certified by accredited, independent organizations.

Wenger storage cabinets for instruments, garments, sheet music and miscellaneous items like music folios are now available with environmentally responsible wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) as an option.

In addition, Wenger music posture chairs and music stands, conductor's equipment, SoundLok^™ Sound-Isolating Practice Rooms and GearBoss® high-density storage systems recently obtained the GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality and GREENGUARD Children & Schools^SM Certifications. Wenger obtained these certifications for its musical instrument and equipment storage solutions in 2009.

About FSC: The FSC Chain of Custody certification (FSC CoC) ensures that wood is tracked through all stages of production – from forest to consumer - and verifies that environmentally responsible practices are followed. FSC CoC certification can help demonstrate compliance with U.S. LEED standards and European Ecolabel criteria.

About GREENGUARD: These GREENGUARD certifications promote healthy indoor environments and air quality through reduced exposure to chemical emissions and other pollutants. To qualify, products must undergo annual testing for more than 10,000 different chemicals and meet rigorous health-based criteria for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including phthalates and formaldehyde.

Wenger is also a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and committed to fulfilling the USGBC's mission of promoting green building practices.

About Wenger Corporation

Wenger Corporation provides innovative, high-quality products and solutions for music and theatre education, performing arts and athletic equipment storage and transport. For more than 65 years Wenger has been listening to what our customers need and then designing and manufacturing innovative, durable and functional products to meet those needs.

Wenger pioneered sound isolation in practice rooms and now offers modular rooms with virtual acoustic technology (VAE) and built-in digital recording/playback. Products for music and theatre spaces include: pre-engineered acoustical doors, sound-isolating music practice rooms, acoustical shells, acoustical wall and ceiling treatment, instrument and equipment storage cabinets, audience seating, portable stage platforms and staging systems, music posture and portable audience chairs, orchestra pit fillers, makeup stations, tiered risers and music furniture.

Our GearBoss® line of athletic storage products includes: team room lockers, high-density storage systems, shelving, multi-function carts, mobile water carts, merchandise kiosks for fundraising and a full complement of accessories.

In addition to our headquarters in Owatonna, Minn., Wenger has facilities in Canada and China, along with international distributors. For more information, please contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER or visit www.wengercorp.com.

March 2011: Acoustic Revivals: Auditorium renovation projects in the United States and Hong Kong showcase the stunning visual and aural impact of new full-stage acoustic shells — When it opened in 1928, the historic Carpenter Theatre in Richmond, Virginia, USA featured interior architecture in a Spanish baroque style. After renovation and restoration, the Carpenter reopened in 2009. While theauditorium's physical dimensions were kept, with nearly 1,800 seats, the Carpenter's vaudeville-era stage house was replaced: its depth and width were almost doubled, and the grid was raised to over 21m. Other updates included an enlarged orchestra pit, new 80-line manual counterweight rigging system and Wenger acoustical shell provided as part of a complete stage equipment package supplied by Texas Scenic Company.

"We wanted a memorable acoustic shell," recalls Bruce Herrmann, AIA, director at Wilson Butler Architects of Boston, Massachusetts. "We had worked with acoustic equipment specialist Wenger on other unusual shells over the past 10 years and knew they would get into the spirit of what we were trying to accomplish. They roll up their sleeves and offer solutions – even when we're asking for something new."

The Carpenter's interior sidewalls resemble building façades, complete with balconies, statues and inset niches glowing blue from the 'twilight' lighting behind them. To continue the feeling of a skyline's depth, Wenger sandwiched together two of its Diva full-stage acoustic shell wall panels. The 'blue sky' Diva panel at the back recedes behind the 'city wall' Diva panel in front.

Wenger constructed niche boxes, or insets, in six of the 11 Diva wall towers, inspired by the niches in the auditorium's walls and featuring hidden lights to create a bluish, twilight glow. One of Wenger's biggest manufacturing challenges was cutting these niches in the wall towers and unusual 'skyline' shapes along the shell's top edges.

Herrmann and Wenger worked together to create the Diva's unusual shapes and angles. "If Wenger couldn't cut the exact shape or angle that I was looking for, they would send me a sample approximating it," he recalls. "Wenger was great to work with and the result turned out really well.

"All the interior architectural elements are intended to enhance the temporary suspension of disbelief – imagine you are in a plaza under the evening sky," says Herrmann. This visual treatment was also carried through to the acoustic shell, which features a vibrant colour scheme painted on by EverGreene Architectural Arts; they also painted the theatre's interior. The theatre design consultant was Theatre Projects; the acoustic consultant was JaffeHolden.

Herrmann believes that if orchestra shells are really done well, the audience members feel like they're in the same room with the orchestra. Aurally, shells strive to join the stage house and audience chamber into one acoustic space, for the benefit of both audience and performers.

"The Diva shell helps us create the best acoustic environment for the musicians," says Laura Bordner Adams, director of orchestral operations with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra. "Musicians are now able to hear each other, which enables them to play together as a much more unified group."

Technical director Steve Sweet says the Carpenter's crew can deploy the shell in less than two hours and strike it in under one. For storage, he likes how the Diva towers nest together and stack fairly tight.

The Carpenter Theatre beautifully blends the new and old – recalling a golden past while adding the Diva shell and other enhancements for the future. "Some people who saw shows here as kids are now bringing their grandchildren," says Herrmann. "Memorable buildings have the potential to be enjoyed by generations who haven't even been born yet. What a great legacy to leave behind."

Sha Tin Town Hall, Hong Kong

Halfway around the world in Asia, the tremendous growth in performing arts facilities is laying the foundation for new traditions of excellence. Recognised as one of the Hong Kong's finest performing arts centres, Sha Tin Town Hall features a wide range of performance and exhibition venues. Its centrepiece is a 1,372-seat auditorium for dance, drama and music.M

To improve this venue's acoustics and flexibility for different musical performances, Wenger recently installed a Diva acoustic shell, replacing an older shell. The inaugural performance in February 2010 was in conjunction with the Chinese New Year; the facility opened in 1987.

This new shell is comprised of 12 wall towers and three rows of ceiling panels with 66 built-in lights and a fire-retardant painted finish.

Wenger's distributor partner in Hong Kong, Claridge House, negotiated and communicated all the project details; Francis Fok is sales manager. Wenger provided two different shell configuration options to accommodate various performing groups or solo performers. Wenger installers marked the stage accordingly, allowing the technical staff to easily move the towers into the correct position.

Facilitating this movement is an Air Transporter, which supports a majority of the tower weight on a cushion of air. The custommade wooden stage floor of the Sha Tin Town Hall, designed to provide resilience for dance performances, had been damaged by the previous shell so the Diva shell's improved mobility and setup were key advantages. Diva towers also feature soft rear casters to help minimise floor damage and adjustable front levellers to align adjacent wall towers over any floor irregularities.

"This Diva shell's lightweight aluminium structure and honeycomb panels weigh significantly less than the steel-and-wood construction of the previous shell," explains Nancy Wagner, director, international sales at Wenger. "It gives a new, more trendy face to the auditorium," adds Andy Tsui, the resident technical manager in the Culture Services Office (New Territories East) of Sha Tin Town Hall. "It is pleasant-looking, well-lit and much brighter."

Along with acoustic shells, Wenger outfits performing arts facilities around the world with a wide range of support equipment including staging platforms, choral risers, music stands, music posture chairs and storage cabinets.

The new Studio VAE Technology is covered by a five-year warranty. For information about this technology or any of Wenger's products, contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER. For more information on VAE technology, please visit WengerCorp.com/VAE.

Oct. 10, 2010: Owatonna, Minn— Improved acoustical performance, enhanced design aesthetics and new accessory options are among the key upgrades Wenger Corp. offers in its new SoundLok™ Sound-Isolation Rooms.

Acoustically, the door's new cam-type hinge offers greater sound isolation, as do ceiling panels that are 50 percent thicker. As always, sound-isolation performance is guaranteed.

Aesthetically, Wenger now offers four color options for wall and ceiling panels, two trim colors for doors and windows and three wood-grain interior accent colors. New low-profile fluorescent light fixtures provide even, shadow-free illumination. Even the door handle's design was updated to a more contemporary look.

Wenger now offers rooms in a wider variety of standard sizes and configurations – 120 total – with greater height flexibility (from 7’ 6" to 10’ in 6" increments). New accessory options include mountable drop-down shelf for laptop computer, full-length mirror and mountable digital tuner/metronome.

Beyond music practice, other applications for SoundLok rooms include meeting rooms, museum spaces, broadcast/recording studios and anywhere else superior sound isolation is desired.

Since introducing modular sound-isolation rooms more than 40 years ago, customer input has always driven Wenger innovation. For example, Virtual Acoustic Environments® (VAE) technology in a SoundLok room creates an integrated learning environment ideal for individual or small-group music practice, with built-in record/playback capabilities and active acoustics to simulate nine acoustical environments.

For more information the SoundLok™ Sound Isolation Room, please visit WengerCorp.com/Acoustic/Sound Isolation or contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Feb. 2, 2010: Owatonna, Minn— The new Flex™ Conductor's System accommodates a director's personal preferences and technology in an ergonomic, flexible solution. The core components – music stand and adaptable platforms – function as an integrated system or individually.

The transparent polycarbonate desk of the Flex Conductor's Stand tilts and rotates smoothly, with dual-lock feature providing 180-degree versatility. Desk height is adjustable from 36” – 52.5” with trigger-release lever. Optional storage baskets attach without tools, designed for holding sheet music and other materials.

To keep technology and teaching materials within easy reach, Flex TechBridge platforms integrate with the base of the Conductor's Stand. Attachments include keyboard and laptop computer mounts, an 18” x 24” work surface and a cup holder. Additional universal clamps are available for further customization by the director. TechBridge lengths are available in one-foot increments from 2' to 8'; height adjusts from 29” to 41”.

Constructed of extruded aluminum with a wheeled, cast-iron base for mobility, the Conductor's Stand and TechBridges are engineered for trouble-free performance. The complete Flex Conductor's System includes two-step podium with detachable safety rail and padded, pneumatically adjustable chair. All Flex components are covered by a five-year warranty.

For more information the Flex™ Conductor's System, please visit WengerCorp.com/Flex or contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Dec. 5, 2009: Owatonna, Minn— With the introduction of new Drum Major and Auxiliary Podiums, Wenger Corp. is expanding its OnBoard® product family of specialized equipment for marching bands, drum corps and similar groups.

In less than 30 seconds, two people can erect the OnBoard Drum Major Podium to its full 72" (1.8 m) height. The innovative, easy-fold design features gas-assist springs that minimize the lifting effort required. When set up, this podium provides a solid, secure vantage point with non-skid, heavy-duty deck and optional safety rails.

For transportation, four large-diameter, high-wear rubber wheels provide easy mobility over any surface. When folded it can serve as a trailer for other equipment; it will also fit inside most trailers and trucks. Intended as a companion to the larger Drum Major Podium, Wenger's 42" (l.1 m) OnBoard Auxiliary Podium can be assembled by one person. Both podium models feature an attractive appearance, with durable, heavy-gauge steel and aluminum construction, and black powder-coat paint finish.

“This new Drum Major Podium is working out very well for us,” explains Brad Furlano, executive director of the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps, a DCI group based in La Crosse, Wis.

“The way the platform raises up is pretty ingenious – it's a great design,” he explains. “The wheel system is very easy to roll, lock and make stable.”

Furlano says their previous podium was unwieldy in the way it folded up and the wheels attached. It was also difficult to lift, move, set up and stabilize. “We like how the rails are removable – we only use the back rail,” notes Furlano. “Whatever configuration you want, it's ready to go and can meet your needs.”

When members of the Blue Stars are loading or unloading this new podium from their equipment truck, Furlano says there are logical, easy places to grab it, without many pinch points or places to potentially get injured.

Along with these two new podiums, seven different OnBoard Cart models are currently available for instruments, uniforms, equipment and other gear. They are designed to facilitate transportation, logistics and storage, saving time and protecting valuable equipment. All OnBoard products are covered by a five-year warranty.

For more information about any OnBoard products, please visit WengerCorp.com/OnBoard or contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Nov. 3, 2009: Dean Eelman, Newnan High School —

First, I want to let you know that the podium arrived at Newnan High School first thing last Friday morning. The band directors and the drum majors were ecstatic. It took about 10 seconds to put the podium up and that was with the band director having a cup of coffee in his hand!!

Oct. 20, 2009: News cameras from Portland-area TV stations were on-hand this morning at Gardiner Middle School in Oregon City, Oregon, for an exciting event in support of music education. This school was selected the winner of In Tune Monthly magazine's annual “Music Room Makeover” contest. Wenger was one of ten companies donating equipment, providing 50 Nota chairs and Classic 50 music stands. Music teacher Cheryl Rizzo submitted the winning application essay.

Region Sales Manager Jeff Kirkpatrick attended the ceremony and acknowledged the recognition given to Wenger Corporation for its support. Approximately 100 students participated in the event, along with the school principal, superintendent and two school board members.

The representatives of In Tune Monthly magazine mentioned Wenger numerous times in their remarks, and also stressed the importance of music education in schools. Despite the tough economic times, In Tune Monthly received more sponsor support this year than during any of the previous four years.

Oct. 6, 2009: Initiative Aimed at Providing Good Indoor Air Quality in Schools — Wenger Corporation is proud to announce that its musical instrument and equipment storage solutions have achieved GREENGUARD Children & Schools™ Certification.

“While providing innovative, high-quality storage options for music programs, we also understand the important role indoor air quality plays in a child's education,” said Stacy Hanson, marketing manager with Wenger, based in Owatonna, Minnesota. “And we want to ensure our products help promote the best possible learning environment.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality is important for health, economic and legal reasons. Indoor air pollutants can cause discomfort, and they are directly linked to children’s health and academic performance. Independent studies show student test scores increase by an average of 14 percent in classrooms with improved indoor air quality.

“We are pleased to welcome Wenger Corporation as a participating manufacturer in the GREENGUARD Certification Program,” stated Marilyn Black, founder of the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI). “With music room storage solutions achieving this certification, Wenger continues to show its commitment to good indoor air quality.”

The GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification is among the most stringent in the world and takes into account the special sensitivities of children. It requires all products be tested annually for more than 10,000 different chemicals and meet rigorous health-based criteria for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including phthalates and formaldehyde. For more information about the GEI, visit GREENGUARD.org.

June 26, 2009: Wenger Corporation, which supplies the world's finest performing arts venues with innovative, high-quality equipment and furniture, introduces Fixed Audience Seating. Three available designs with a multitude of finish options to ensure these new seats complement a wide variety of décors and budgets.

Each seat features handcrafted, ergonomic styling with thick cushions and lumbar support for superior, long-lasting comfort. Seat bottoms, backs and end panels are constructed of 11-ply pressed wood finished with premium-grade veneers and stains. Luxurious upholstery with durable stitching resists stains and looks great for years. All seat designs are ADA-compliant and available widths range from 19” (48.2cm) through 23” (58.4cm).

To help eliminate distracting noise, Wenger's special lifting mechanism makes the seat bottom's automatic self-rise extremely quiet and fast. The seat bottoms store vertically to allow patrons easy access and exit. When seat is unoccupied, the perforated seat bottom helps maintain consistent acoustical characteristics in the performance space.

Options include donor plates, seat and aisle number plates and aisle lighting. The Series 300 seat features a pedestal base that provides proper airflow for floor-level HVAC installations. Each seat design has been independently tested to standards established by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA); these tests measure strength, stability and ability to withstand heavy use.

For more information, please contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Apr. 28, 2009: GearBoss® by Wenger Corp. offers a variety of team room lockers designed to strengthen program pride and enhance team room functionality. More than 1,000 different possible configurations are available — sizes, features and accessories — with either metal or wood construction. Lockers are available in a variety of color/finish choices, from school colors to wood-grain laminates.

Metal AirPro™ lockers feature an open grid design that promotes airflow, sanitation and visual inspection. The integrated, hinged seat saves valuable floor space and is lockable over a security box and footlocker.

Wood lockers are constructed of a durable, easy-to-clean wood laminate. To promote sanitation, all metal locker surfaces are finished with paint containing antimicrobial agents; wooden laminate surfaces incorporate antimicrobial nanosilver technology.

Feb. 6, 2009: New OnBoard™ Cart System from Wenger Corp. Takes Marching Band Gear from Storage to Performance – and Back Again — Wenger Corp. developed the new OnBoard™ Cart System to suit the specialized needs and equipment of marching bands, drum corps and similar groups. OnBoard Carts are designed to facilitate transportation, logistics and storage, saving time and protecting valuable equipment. Seven different OnBoard Cart models are currently available for instruments, uniforms, equipment and other gear.

Five OnBoard Cart models are performance-ready for field competitions or indoor concerts, and also function as transport and storage solutions: 1) the Bass Drum/Gong Cart holds instruments up to a 40” diameter and rotates in 15-degree increments; 2) the Timpani Cart fits four pedal-style timpani and features a fold-down player platform; 3) the Percussion Cart accommodates a wide selection of small percussion instruments; 4) the Speaker Cart angles to 45, 30, 15 and 0 degrees; 5) the Keyboard Cart supports 88-key keyboard and related electronic equipment.

Each of these five performance-ready OnBoard Carts features a metal tow bar and can be transported by a golf cart or Gator – either individually or linked together – or by hand. The large pneumatic tires roll easily on any surface, including turf.

Two OnBoard Cart models are designed primarily for behind-the-scenes storage and transport needs: 1) the Cargo Cart can be configured with shelves for marching band instruments or a garment bar for hanging up to 35 uniforms; 2) the Uniform Cart holds 24 uniforms and fits in coach bus storage compartments. These two OnBoard Carts are available with either pneumatic tires or non-marring solid rubber casters.

“Our field research found that many marching bands struggle with inadequate or poorly designed solutions for effectively handling their equipment,” says Nancy Clark, OnBoard Product Manager at Wenger Corp. “Developing this OnBoard Cart System continues the proud Wenger tradition of listening to our customers, which has been at the heart of our business for more than 60 years.” She adds that other OnBoard Carts may be introduced in the future.

All OnBoard Carts feature durable, heavy-gauge steel construction and a consistent visual appearance, including a black powder-coat finish that blends into the background. They are covered by a five-year warranty.

For more information about any of these OnBoard Carts, please visit WengerCorp.com/OnBoard or contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER.

Jan. 26, 2009: Retrofit Solution Improves Music Practice and Assessment — Wenger Corp. developed its new Studio VAE™ (Virtual Acoustical Environments™) Technology as an affordable, retrofit solution to provide existing built-in practice rooms or teaching studios with leading-edge teaching/practice tools for music education. The Studio VAE features capabilities for record/playback and upload/download; simulations of nine virtual acoustical environments; and a user-friendly control panel.

With the Studio VAE, Wenger expands its exclusive offering of integrated learning environments for music. The digital record/playback capability enables teachers to easily evaluate an individual student's instrumental or vocal performance; students also have the opportunity for self-critique. The Studio VAE records up to nine sessions totaling 60 minutes. Upload/download capability enables musicians to record a practice session or upload accompaniments.

By selecting from the Studio VAE's nine active-acoustic settings, musicians can learn how to optimize their performance in different environments. Benefits include accelerated development of critical listening skills; improved articulation, dynamics and timing; and a more enjoyable practice session. Studio VAE settings include Baroque room, recital halls, auditoriums, cathedral and arena.

Components of the Studio VAE Technology system include: VAE digital processor (intended for placement on a table/shelf or rack mounting); four speakers (for ceiling-height installation in each room corner); two wall absorber panels (1' x 2' x 3" thick) with integrated microphones; VAE control panel pedestal; and other materials needed for installation. (Installation by Wenger technicians is required.) Studio VAE Technology is recommended for rooms up to 180 square feet.

Developed in partnership with Lexicon Professional, a leader in audio signal processing, Studio VAE Technology uses Lexicon's patented technology to offer realistic acoustical simulations, including enhanced early reflections. These reflections contribute to the sensation of being enveloped – or surrounded – by the sound, and enable musicians to hear themselves in a particular space more accurately.

The Studio VAE features easy, intuitive operation, including visual feedback from an LED display and backlit, 18-button control panel. The optional foot control provides convenient, hands-free playback and recording.

The new Studio VAE Technology is covered by a five-year warranty. For information about this technology or any of Wenger's products, contact Wenger Corporation at 1-800-4WENGER. For more information on VAE technology, please visit WengerCorp.com/VAE.