The new Amphion Theatre in Doetinchem is a venue full of atmosphere. The smart use of space and state-of-the-art technical applications, for instance in the fly loft, resulted in an innovative theatre complex.
photography by © Christian Richters
The building is orientated in an open, inviting manner towards the city. Its tilting facade is characterised by a glass incision that offers views of the red accents from the grand stair and foyers beyond. A playful pattern of square windows interrupts the masonry facades of sand-coloured bricks.
The building is capable of accommodating large numbers of people simultaneously. The form of the main 856-seat auditorium is based on a horseshoe, with extra seating provided on the balconies.A generous stage and wings illuminated by daylight, thanks to their location along the facade, make this theatre ideal for big productions. The seating in the intimate black box theatre brings the audience up close to the actors through its U-shaped tribune that can be reconfigured to meet changing needs.
photography by © Christian Richters
A loading system is integrated in the building in a smart way, enabling multiple trucks to service both theatres on the same floor level. The entrance to the car park is also integrated in the building.
Visitors enter the building through an inviting public square and arrive into an atmospheric world of warm red hues. Both theatres are connected by various foyers, all with their own identity, that distribute visitors evenly throughout the building.
photography by © Christian Richters
Project Info :
Architects : Mecanoo
Project Year : 2010
Project Area : 9,700 m2
Photographs : Christian Richters
Structural Engineer : ABT bv, Delft
Project Location : Doetinchem, The Netherlands
Contractor : Aan de Stegge Bouw & Werktuigbouw, Goor
Client : Cultural Centre Theatre Amphion SA, Doetinchem
Technical adviser, Theatre : Theateradvies bv, Amsterdam
Mechanical, electrical engineers : Royal Haskoning, Rotterdam
Project management and building cost consultant : BBN Consultants, Houten
Building physics advisor, acoustics and fire safety : LBP SIGHT, Nieuwegein
