Paisley Arts Centre: Refurbishing an Historic Venue with the Latest Stage Engineering and SLAV Technology

Paisley Arts Centre, a Grade B listed building with a rich history dating back to 1738, has recently undergone a significant transformation thanks to the refurbishing effort commissioned by Renfrewshire Council and the main contractor, Clark Contracts.

Adlib, a leading UK integrator of stage engineering and sound, lighting, and audio-visual (SLAV) solutions, was entrusted with delivering a tension wire grid, associated lighting bars, track and drape suite, extensive SLAV infrastructure, and loose stage lighting and sound equipment to complement the existing stock across multiple spaces in one of the most unique and intimate performance venues in Scotland.

The project, managed by Clark Contracts and with the guidance of the theatre consultant Charcoalblue and Renfrewshire Council's Property Services as the architect, presented a unique set of challenges. Adlib's expertise was paramount in ensuring the preservation of the building's historical legacy while seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of modern performance requirements.

At the heart of the project was the installation of a 122m2 tension wire grid and associated lighting bars in the main performance space, alongside a comprehensive track and drape suite. This stage engineering solution enhanced the venue's versatility and provided a sturdy and flexible foundation for the SLAV infrastructure that Adlib was tasked with implementing.

The SLAV infrastructure, designed, installed, and commissioned by Adlib, encompassed a comprehensive lighting, sound, and video solution. The lighting framework, based on an ETC Paradigm control platform, featured 18 facility panels, patchbays, and termination, as well as data racks, ETC BluesSystem Performance Work lighting and ChromaQ Inspire House lighting, and a control system with two Master Touchscreens and ten Button Outstations. The lighting infrastructure was complete with ETC ColorSource ThruPower power controls, ETC Response Mk2 Gateways, and DMX Distribution Amplifiers.

The sound and video components of the SLAV infrastructure integration were equally comprehensive. Adlib deployed a front-of-house and backstage paging and show relay system across all spaces, utilising a Q-SYS Core 110f I/O processor, Atterotech Inputs, and QSC Amplification.

The audio and video distribution system, complemented by a ClearCom Comms System featuring an MS702 Master Station and eight RS702 Beltpacks, a 3-zone Ampetronic AFILS (Audio Frequency Induction Loop System), and a Williams AV BYOD-based hearing assistance system, ensures accessibility for all patrons. In addition, the Adlib team installed a sound system in the multi-purpose and studio spaces for a seamless audio experience throughout the venue.

To enhance the venue's performance capabilities, Adlib also supplied a comprehensive package of loose equipment, including ETC ColorSource Spot V Profile LED luminaires, Chauvet Professional Ovation lighting fixtures, and an L-Acoustics Loudspeaker system comprising A10i, 5XT, and a KS21 subwoofer, powered by an LA4X amplifier.

The audio loose kit also included a control package comprising an Allen & Heath SQ5 mixing console, DX168/240X Stage Boxes, and a range of Shure and Sennheiser wireless microphones.

Drew Eadie, Adlib’s Installation Manager, commented, “The successful completion of this project is a testament to Adlib's technical expertise and ability to navigate the unique challenges posed by an historic venue like Paisley Arts Centre. It was a pleasure to work in such a unique space, and we are thrilled that the venue has already hosted a diverse array of performances, from PACE Theatre and When Mountains Meet to Rachel Sermanni and The Great Baldini's Show.“

On the council’s website, Mhairi Henderson, Assistant Project Manager, commented on the project: “We're delighted with the results of the Arts Centre's transformation, and believe it will be a fantastic addition to the local and national arts scene now it has reopened. There have been several challenges along the way, but it has been incredibly rewarding to give renewed life to this Grade B listed cultural hub for Paisley.”