The Ultimate Guide to Building a Portable Performance Space
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Portable Performance Space
October 11, 2023
Building a portable performance space involves multiple components, each playing a crucial role in creating a functional and professional setup. The equipment you need can vary widely depending on factors like the size of your space, your location, and the type of events you’ll be hosting. Previously, we wrote a blog post about staging events in a gymnasium—this post expands on that topic, covering portable performance spaces as a whole.
Platforms
Every performance space starts with a solid foundation: the platform. Most often, this is a portable stage, but for choir or orchestra concerts, tiered risers may be the better option. This is where the magic happens, so selecting the right platform is key.
There’s no shortage of choices when it comes to staging. Decisions like stage configuration, size, and surface type will all impact your event. The best way to ensure you get the right system? Talk to an expert who can guide you through the options—this will save you time and set you up for long-term success.
Audience Seating
Seating can make or break the audience experience. In a portable space, you generally have two main options: seating risers or rows of chairs on the floor. While simple chair setups work, they can limit visibility, especially for guests in the back. Seating risers, on the other hand, improve sightlines and create a better overall experience. At the end of the day, you want your audience to enjoy the event, and a well-thought-out seating plan helps make that happen.
Sound Projection
Great sound is essential, but how you achieve it depends on the event. You can either use an electronic sound reinforcement system—such as microphones and speakers—or rely on acoustic shells to naturally direct sound toward the audience.
For choir and orchestra concerts in a gymnasium or stage house, a portable shell behind the risers is a must. It ensures the music reaches the audience clearly and enhances the overall sound quality. Other events may not require a shell and can rely on a portable sound system instead.
Accessories
Accessories add both safety and polish to a performance space. The right additions can make a big difference in the functionality and professional look of your setup.
For outdoor events, barricades might be necessary to keep crowds at a safe distance—something you wouldn’t need for a high school band concert in a gym. Most events benefit from elements like backdrops, guardrails, stairs, and skirting, so it’s worth evaluating what extras can enhance your space.
Conclusion
As you’ve probably realized, every portable space is going to be a little different, which means there isn’t a one size fits all solution. Your best course of action if you’re building or using a portable space, is to talk to our experts so they can recommend the equipment that’s going to be perfect for you.
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October 15, 2020
