State-of-the-art auditorium with 1,500 capacity at Ravindra Bhavan

BHOPAL: The new auditorium at Ravindra Bhavan is likely to be inaugurated in a month. Under construction since the year 2016, the auditorium with a seating capacity of 1,500 people will be one of the biggest here in the state capital. Equipped with latest technology, plush banquet halls and rehearsal rooms, the upcoming auditorium is all set to be an all-in-one stop for theatre groups. Principal secretary, department of culture, Pankaj Rag said, "It is going to be a state-of-the-art auditorium with a larger seating capacity as compared to other auditoriums in the city. It will surely give a massive boost to the cultural scene in the city. Moreover, there are also two mini-auditoriums that are under construction and they will be completed in a month's time."Along with the hall, the stage measuring 18x30 feet will also be the largest indoor stage in the city. Special arrangements for lighting, sound as well as fire-safety have been included in the facilities. The auditorium ensures that pre-performance and back-stage areas are not congested while the artistes are waiting for their performances. Since the stage has a capacity to accommodate 100 artistes, the backstage has been designed accordingly. The newly constructed area can accommodate more people. Extra green rooms have also been set up to avoid last-minute hassle for artistes. There will be separate washrooms for men and women. According to the architect, it was a challenge to ensure that the sound quality does not get compromised in such a large hall. To counter the problem of acoustics, large panels have been used for the purpose. Acoustic panels covered with special fabric have been installed in the auditorium to minimize the echo and enhance voice quality. Moreover, ceiling-catwalks have been incorporated to put up lights and microphones over the stage. The stage has been equipped with three rows of lights to illuminate every corner. Emphasis has been given to safety measures with efficient fire alarms .