IntegrationIntegration is…

The Start of a Great Performance

Theatre Equipment | Systems | Integration Integration is essential to inspiration. We make ideas reality.

SCENE ONE (A construction site for the performing arts venue. The project is underway but, at this point, it is little more than a hole in the ground. SECOA enters.)

SECOA “ We know this business from the ground up.” The real drama begins long before opening night. Every scene—from concept to punch list—can be full of surprises, pitfalls and risk. Performing arts facilities are considered second only to hospitals in the extraordinary and often underestimated demands placed on the buildings’ systems and structures.

Heavy scenery moved in an eye-blink or a stage layout transformed under darkness appears as if by magic to an audience. Behind the scenes, however, a production team crafts the illusion using highly specialized and meticulously coordinated systems. Unique knowledge is required to successfully design, construct and integrate these hidden elements into the facility architecture.

Enter SECOA. We’re experts in creating performing arts spaces. A national integrator of theatre equipment and systems with more than 87 years of experience, SECOA both manufactures components and provides services ranging from budgeting to engineering 1 and installation.

We make the systems that make the magic.

In addition to requiring unique building parameters, proper integration of theatre equipment presents another challenge. These equipment systems are installed during the final time-constrained phases of construction, when budgets, deadlines and physics can conspire to rein in the original vision for the project. Unintended and unwanted compromises can result.

While SECOA can step into the process at any time, our value is greatest at the outset. In the early phases of planning and design, we can spot and maneuver through the plot twists—minimizing project risk and keeping the inspiration intact.

We’ve seen it all. We’ve done it all. We know our lines. So let’s raise the curtain. The clock is ticking.

Tick, Tock

Opening night is opening night. There are no second chances. The schedule is the most important thing we build. And it needs to be accurate, realistic and adaptable. Because the show must go on. Integration is versatile. We play many roles.

The Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, Dallas, TX

Unlike a typical theatre, where support spaces wrap around the stage house, the Wyly is designed so that the support spaces are either above or below the auditorium to enable maximum interaction and flexibility. The advanced mechanized “superfly” system moves both scenery and seating so that artistic directors can rapidly change the configuration from proscenium to thrust, flat floor, and more.

This project required SECOA to engineer on a massive scale. Our contributions included a 130,000-lb. flying seating tower, 60,000-lb. hoists with tracking systems, automated rigging, and audience lift systems with motorized turntables. As a full-service integrator, SECOA brings together budgeting, project management, engineering, manufacturing, sourcing and installation management capabilities. This combination allows us to deliver custom solutions for any budget.

That’s why owners and construction teams across the country choose us time and time again.

Our equipment lines include rigging, orchestra shells, pits and lifts, drapery, lighting and seating—all engineered and installed to work together seamlessly. As integrators, rather than dealers or suppliers, our expertise goes beyond the parts and pieces. We understand the entire performing arts space and how the myriad of specialized components and systems, including those of other trades, are interconnected.

SECOA differs from equipment-only providers with centralized capabilities 3 that remove risk from both the project schedule and budget.

• Our estimates, built by costing and design experts who envision the entire project, are more reliable. • Our schedules, fortified by in-house manufacturing and industry-leading IT investments, are more flexible. • Our quality control program includes an independent field audit department that assures we execute all field activities to the highest standard. • Our broader market reach allows us to mobilize resources more efficiently. • Our shared experience covers a larger scope of work, enabling us to funnel creative problem-solving through one clear and direct communication channel.

An integrated approach means two things. On the front end, risk is reduced. On the back end, budgets and schedules are preserved.

Rise and Fall

Behind the scenes, every production defies gravity. Sets, lights and drapery must be raised, lowered and suspended in midair. Rigging makes the workings fly— swiftly, quietly, and safely. Integration is reliable. We are your supporting cast.

SECOA’s partners include a nationwide network of time-tested subcontractors and key suppliers. Our industry- leading field audit team insures that performance in the field proceeds in the best way possible and that our partners have the tools and information they need. We use the trust that we have developed by nurturing these relationships over decades to build reliability into a business that depends on it. A performing arts space is a complicated place, a mayhem of moving scenery and dangling pipes. It looks precarious, but when properly designed and constructed, the chaos is really a choreography of highly calibrated systems. Building this kind of specialized space naturally requires a special kind of partnership.

SECOA, the industry’s only national integrator, skillfully works with market-leading architects, theatre consultants and contractors as well as newcomers, each benefitting from different types and levels of support. Our backgrounds in actual theatre operations enable us to understand owners’ and users’ expectations—bringing a perspective to our partnerships that helps balance demands with reality.

We are proud of our project teams, which include the following people:

• estimators experienced in both design and technical production, enabling them to 5 construct sophisticated and accurate budgets as well as early eye-opening RFIs; • project managers—typically former technical directors and installers—who incorporate applied theatre knowledge to their problem-solving, coordination and communication responsibilities; • designers, drafters and engineers, with a combined experience of over 185 years, who enjoy an industry-wide reputation for producing the most complete and accurate submittals as well as creative solutions to our industry’s challenges; • manufacturing personnel who maintain schedules with maximum flexibility while ensuring the highest quality output and remaining in constant interaction with our PMs and engineers. With our cast in the wings, our partners, such as you, stay onstage, directing the scene and ending precisely on cue.

Secoa’s engineering ability and ingenuity was key in making the “ Wyly Theatre a success. Their ability to think outside the box along with incorporating their broad theatre equipment knowledge base was paramount to the completion of such a difficult project—unlike any other in the world. Matt McMullan, Assistant Superintendent “ McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. Integration is all-encompassing. We are with you scene by scene.

SECOA PARTNERS WITH YOU EVEN BEFORE WE WIN THE BID The timelime below illustrates the four basic phases of a construction project followed by a deadline special to performing arts facilities: Showtime. Included under each phase are sequential milestones for general construction as well as highlights of SECOA’s integration program.

I. General Design & Planning II. Bidding III. Award IV. General Construction V. Showtime

3 Feasibility Studies p SECOA invitation p Correspondence 3 Pre-Construction to trades requiring to bid Specialized pre-construction integration with p 3 Pre-Planning meeting to educate trades on theatre systems p Generation of RFI theatre systems and integration 3 Planning material to project schedule and budget p Collaborative evaluation of p Review of trades submittals bid pipeline opportunities (Includes HVAC, electrical, p Scope review plumbing and structural steel.) p Educational sessions for key decision-makers on 3 Excavation and Foundation theatre systems, integration Owner Selection requirements and scope 3 p Curtains/drapes and shell 6 3Design Development finishes selections (18-week lead to Special Install.) p Concept and design or design support services 3 Framing depending on project scale and customization (Key p SECOA submittals approval considerations include load criteria, steel placement, p Specialized coordination equipment selection, size meeting (Verify steel onsite, and space requirements.) conduct obstructions audit, review MEP installation plan, p Spec writing services and/ verify SECOA install schedule.) or budgets 3 Exterior Penetrations 3 Construction Document p General equipment field Services check (8-week lead to General Install.) p SECOA listing in spec 3 Mechanical Rough-Ins p MEP coordination follow-up 3 General Design, Planning (Verify MEP install versus plan and & Construction Timeline SECOA install schedule.)

p SECOA’s Project Role: Integrated for excellence 3 Drywall, Trim Carpentry, Painting p General install (8-week lead to Owner Turnover.)

3 Hard Surface Flooring p Orchestra pit systems field check (8-week lead to Special Install.) 3 Cabinets and Countertops, Finish Mechanicals and Appliances, Carpeting p Special install orchestra pit and shell systems and curtains/drapery (6-week lead to Owner Turnover.) 3 Orientation p Operator/owner training 3 Owner Turnover 4 7

6 8 Centerline View of a Theatre

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INTEGRATION PREVENTS MISCUES FROM THE FOUNDATION UP

This schematic illustrates the locations of some key theatre system components. Without these systems, the building is just a building. No magic. To successfully create the theatre’s many illusions, the building itself must be designed and constructed with these systems fully in mind. This requires all trades to be informed and in synch from the get-go.

1 Foundation SECOA confers with the concrete and electrical contractors on the placement of equipment for lifts and back boxes. Hot topics include installation of guide chases, wire size and type and conduit requirements. 2 Seating Risers Working closely with the concrete, electrical, HVAC, and Miscellaneous Metals subcontractors, SECOA specifies locations for things ranging from aisle lighting junction boxes to diffusers and railings. 3 T-Wall for Linesets By coordinating with trades, reviewing submittals and conducting field checks at the right time, SECOA ensures that this critical wall remains entirely free of sprinklers, HVAC, structural steel and wiring. 4 Automated Rigging Special attention must be paid to the location of and supporting infrastructure for these suspended machines. Clear access for service and maintenance must be provided, keeping unique loading requirements in mind. Conduit size, run locations and control panel location often require re-evaluation. 5 Back Wall of the Proscenium-Firewall Prior to construction, SECOA will help determine imbeds and blocking or backing to make sure this wall is properly clear to accommodate the fire curtain. 6 Catwalks and Loading Bridges For safety reasons, these areas must be located to align precisely to the arbor. By conducting Preconstruction and Coordination meetings, SECOA helps guarantee a proper match. 7 Structural Steel Beams-Headblocks and Loftblocks Subcontractors often try to run their systems through the grid channels, creating obstacles and interference. SECOA can prevent these problems by reviewing the drawings early in the process. 8 Lighting and Dimming During scope review, SECOA will help clarify gray areas in the bidding documents. Oft-repeated concerns include rack locations, high- and low-voltage terminations to the racks and provision for multi-conductor cable. Integration is prudent. We help you avoid budget drama.

The Guthrie Theatre, Minneapolis, MN

This $125 million complex was built with three separate performance spaces, each with its own unique features and requirements. The three spaces include a grand-scale thrust stage for the classics of the centuries, an intimate proscenium stage for the classics of this century and a studio theatre for developing the classics of tomorrow.

SECOA engineered the stage trap systems in the proscenium and thrust theatres to support a loaded 7-ton forklift —even when some sections are removed. The trap system consists of 4’ x 4’ panels that can withstand an 8,600-pound point load on a 2” x 8” contact patch. SECOA also designed a custom angular ramp lift system that keeps the bottom of the ramp on the floor while the top section moves vertically to align with the stage and surrounding lifts.

The unique complexities of building a performing arts space can be overwhelming. Hidden complexity—coupled with compressed timelines for installation—means even the mere errant location of a grid hanger can cause an avalanche of budget overages.

To manage budget risk, adaptability is essential.

The sooner SECOA gets involved, the more money we can save. Our integrated estimating, engineering, and project management competencies help us tailor best-fit systems as well as foresee costly obstructions or other incompatibilities.

Known for having the most accurate submittals in the industry, SECOA identifies obstructions and incompatibilities better than the competition. We find stage rigging encumbrances posed by structural steel in over 50% of drawings we review. For front- of-house rigging systems, the number is over 60%. Drawings also frequently reveal 9 equipment loads that overburden the building. Spotting these oversights early, SECOA can recalculate or verify loads, advise on steel relocation or recommend creative workarounds—all preventing a potential budget disaster.

At all stages of a project, new constraints can arise and budgets can change. Having unique project intelligence, SECOA provides the quickest and smartest value engineering in the industry. During construction, our centralized engineering and project management resources expedite problem-solving, ensuring our partners stay nimble.

Change can be difficult. But in the right hands, change provides opportunity. SECOA keeps budget risk under control—and that leaves you shining in the spotlight.

Let it Shine

LIGHTING IS A CHARACTER IN EVERY DRAMA. IT SETS THE MOOD, IT FOCUSES THE ATTENTION OF THE AUDIENCE, IT ADVANCES THE PLOT—AND IT CHANGES WITH EVERY PRODUCTION. IT’S A HIGHLY VERSATILE PERFORMER. Integration is timely. We help you keep on schedule.

The Plaza Theatre, El Paso, TX

The $38 million dollar restoration of this 80-year-old “atmospheric” theatre palace—once known as the “showcase of the southwest”—is a catalyst for the revival of the downtown core of El Paso. The newly restored theatre is the home of the El Paso Symphony.

SECOA successfully completed a custom orchestra shell that blends the historic ambience of the existing architecture of the theatre with a rich, full sound functionality. SECOA’s expertise in manufacturing this custom orchestra shell included computer modeling of the spherical ceiling panels to ensure proper layout and appearance as well as performing mass and center-of-gravity calculations to ensure that the panels hang correctly and align perfectly with each other. Like budgets, schedules are susceptible to cascading effects. One early slip can jeopardize an entire project. Compounding the tension, installation of key systems occurs perilously close to showtime. By integrating a large scope of specialized work, SECOA centralizes coordination and scheduling activities for these unique key systems. This frees you to focus on what you do best.

Obstructions disrupt not only budgets but also schedules. Obstructions from fire equipment and HVAC are just as common as those from steel. Fixing these encumbrances is particularly time draining for a variety of reasons ranging from inflexible fire codes to an acoustician’s exacting standards. Preventing these obstacles from occurring is tantamount to meeting deadlines.

SECOA excels in workflow management. Our sustained investment in planning resources is of a scale you would expect to see only in much 11 larger organizations.

Our standard workflow process includes specialized preconstruction and coordination meetings conducted by one of our Project Managers. During these sessions, we educate trades, review submittals and confirm scheduling. Our vertically integrated manufacturing facilities allow us to manage workflow with unparalleled flexibility. Onsite control of component manufacturing along with use of advanced scheduling tools give us the ability to shift production, shipping and installation dates to meet your timetable.

Unlike our competitors, we always have options, even in the tightest of circumstances.

The Science of Sound

FORM MEETS FUNCTION WITH BEAUTY, depTH, AND RESONANCE. THE ORCHESTRA SHELL PUTS MUSIC IN MOTION BY REFLECTIng AND DIRECTING sound—ENRICHING THE EXPERIENCE FOR PERFORMERS AND AUDIENCE ALIKE. Integration reduces risks and delivers excellence. Take a bow.

Tickets have been sold, productions have been staged. Owners, benefactors and performers anxiously await their big night. All systems must work as intended, calibrated to both spec and script.

Will budgets and schedules close intact? Will the system work its magic? Or, conversely, will an unexpected plot twist land you in a tragedy?

As turnover approaches, SECOA’s integrated approach makes a powerful difference. SECOA brings you what you need when you need it most: Project intelligence. Flexibility. Smart scheduling. Effective communication. We are uniquely qualified to help you deliver excellence on budget and on time.

At SECOA, we know that the better we understand your needs, the better partner we will be.

12 Give us a call. Fill us in on the projects in your pursuit and we will schedule a meeting geared to that portfolio. If performing arts spaces are a new area of interest, consider our offer to present an overview of theatre systems integration at your offices. Our experts will deliver a tutorial that will get you started on the right foot.

When time is running short, include SECOA on your invitation to bid list. We will harness our resources to provide an integrated bid package that gives you the best value with the least amount of risk.

Contact SECOA today and discover the difference that a full-service integrator can make. Remember: the sooner we take the stage, the sooner you gain confidence and control. We promise the results will garner sustained applause. 763.506.8800 or 800.328.5519

SECOA 8650 109th Avenue North Champlin, Minnesota 55316

www.secoa.com Ideas made real: Recent projects.

From high schools to high-profile concert halls, we know how to make performing arts spaces that perform beautifully.

Aladdin Hotel - Planet Hollywood• Las Vegas, NV Juilliard School of Music • New York, NY Air Force Academy • Colorado Springs, CO Lincoln NE & SE High School • Lincoln, NE Alma High School • Alma, AR Millennium Park Pavilion • Chicago, IL Auditorium Theatre • Chicago, IL Minneapolis Convention Center • Minneapolis, MN Aycock Auditorium - UNC • Greensboro, NC Morris Performing Center • South Bend, IN Bayfront Center Auditorium • St. Petersburg, FL Napa College Performing Arts Center • Napa, CA Baltimore Hippodrome • Baltimore, MD Navy Pier Entertainment Facility • Chicago, IL Ben Davis High School • Indianapolis, IN North Charleston Convention Center • N. Charleston, SC Bob Carr Performing Arts Center • Orlando, FL North Port High School • North Port, FL Boston Opera • Boston, MA Northwestern University Speech and Block Building • Evanston, IL Boynton Beach High School • Boynton Beach, FL Opryland USA • Nashville, TN Brigham Young University - Dejong Hall • Provo, UT Ordway Center for the Performing Arts • St. Paul, MN Burt Reynolds Dinner Theatre • Jupiter, FL Orpheum Theatre • Minneapolis, MN Caesar’s Palace • Las Vegas, NV Oriental Theatre • Chicago, IL California State University Performing Arts Center • Northridge, CA Overture Center • Madison, WI Cervantes National Theatre • Buenos Aires, Argentina Palace Theatre • Chicago, IL Children’s Theatre Company • Minneapolis, MN Papermill Playhouse • Millburn, NJ Chicago Music & Dance Theatre • Chicago, IL Peoria Center for the Performing Arts • Peoria, AZ Circus Circus Casino • Las Vegas, NV Peoria Civic Center • Peoria, IL College Conservatory of Music • Cincinnati, OH Plainfield High School • Plainfield, IN Condado Convention Center Complex • San Juan, Puerto Rico Plaza Theatre and Performing Arts Center • El Paso, TX Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School • New Haven, CT Purdue University - Fowler Hall • West Lafayette, IN Cornerstone Arts Center - Colorado College • Colorado Springs, CO River Campus - SE Missouri State University • Cape Girardeau, MO Curran Theatre • San Francisco, CA Schuster Performing Arts Center • Portsmouth, OH Decatur Central High School • Indianapolis, IN Seton Hill University Center for the Arts • Greensburg, PA Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre • Dallas, TX Shawnee State University • Portsmouth, OH Dekalb County Performing Arts & Community Center • Decatur, GA Sheboygan Theatre • Sheboygan, WI Denver Center for the Arts • Denver, CO Sir Run Run Shaw Chinese University • Hong Kong Disneyland Animation/ABC Live • Anaheim, CA South Florida Community College Auditorium • Avon Park, FL Disneyland Hyperion Theatre • Anaheim, CA Symphony Center • Chicago, IL Dodge City High School Facility • Dodge City, KS Times Union Performing Arts Center • Jacksonville, FL Donald Reynolds Performance Hall • Conway, AR Turning Stone Casino Resort • Verona, NY Duke University - Baldwin Auditorium • Durham, NC U.S.S.R. Embassy • Washington, DC Duluth Superior Symphony Hall • Duluth, MN University of Hawaii - John F. Kennedy Theatre • Honolulu, HI Emerson College - Paramount Center • Boston, MA Van Wezel Performing Arts Center • Sarasota, FL Ferguson Center - Christopher Newport University • Newport News, VA Venetian Casino Resort - Jersey Boys Theatre • Las Vegas, NV Epic Auditorium • Verona, WI Venetian Casino Resort - Phantom Theater • Las Vegas, NV Fair Park Music Hall • Dallas, TX Virginia Beach Arts and Conference Center • Virginia Beach, VA Guthrie Theater • Minneapolis, MN WK Kellogg Auditorium • Battle Creek, MI Hard Rock Cafe/Live • Orlando, FL Margot and Jim Winspear Opera House • Dallas, TX Harvard Westlake Middle School • Los Angeles, CA ICC Performing Arts Center • Spindale, NC Jackson Hole Center for the Arts • Jackson, WY www.secoa.com | 8650 109th Avenue North | Champlin, MN 55316

Theatre Equipment | Systems | Integration