The MacArthur High School auditorium renovation was one of the major components of a comprehensive renovation throughout the 1960s structure for the Irving Independent School District. The challenge was to convert the outdated auditorium into a modern performing arts venue within a very limited budget for a project that was not originally in the bond package. The existing ceiling and catwalk / truss systems had to remain due to budget constraints.
Major improvements included new theater seating for approximately 1,000 patrons; new sloped concrete floor to improve sight lines and new treatment of side and rear walls for improved acoustical performance. Other improvements include creation of cross stage access; improved acoustics, new sound system, theatrical lighting, acoustical shell ceiling panels (batten hung), rolling acoustical wall towers, separate lighting and sound booths, new electric motorized fly loft rigging, new draperies and free curtain, new receiving dock, scene shop and properties room, new dressing rooms, and ADA accessibility throughout the entire school.
