Johnson Hall

Overview

Johnson Hall Opera House is a performing arts center located in the Kennebec River Valley in Maine. Initially built as a livery stable in 1864, the hall has undergone multiple transformations over its century and a half history as it has adapted to the changing entertainment needs of its patrons. Currently operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Hall showcases music, theater, films, comedy, and other forms of live entertainment.

Program

The WSDG team was tasked with the acoustic design of the Hall’s upstairs 400-seat opera house with the goal of breath-taking sound and favorable acoustics for live performance. The team also collaborated with A/V designers Stone Mountain Systems on electroacoustic calibration, tuning, and construction supervision. All of this was done under the supervision of a historical consultant in order to retain the Hall’s historic look and feel.

Design

Preserving the original aesthetics of the opera house while updating its acoustics and A/V was of paramount importance during this project. The WSDG team advised perforated acoustic panels hidden by period-appropriate fabric on the side walls to accomplish the desired effect as well as curved angles on the balcony to reflect sound upward. The capable team at Johnson Hall was able to quickly implement the recommendations, resulting in a vastly improved acoustic experience . The room is now capable of hosting a variety of live and pre-recorded events with modern sound specifications while still staying true to its historical roots.