One of the world's best known opera houses, Glyndebourne Opera House was completely rebuilt in the 1990s to accommodate not only the demands of modern productions but also the intense demand for tickets. The new auditorium, although larger and more contemporary than the original, needed to retain the authentic and intimate feel of this very special performance venue.
The New Theatre Chair Design
The chairs themselves, according to Sir George Christie, Chairman of Glyndebourne Productions, were to be "robust, comfortable, economical in terms of upkeep, good looking and in keeping with the auditorium." The final unique design was created in a close partnership between Audience Systems, Sir George and his wife Lady Christie and Sir Michael and Lady Hopkins, the new theatre's architects.
To comply with the need for comfort, the chair was designed not only to provide excellent seated support but also a comfortable temperature for each audience member - with an air delivery system fitted into the base of each chair. The refined appearance of the chair is created with the use of curved timber;
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the finish of which co-ordinates with the striking panelling used throughout the auditorium. The slotted wooden seat panels are not only visually attractive, but also prevent the auditorium's acoustics from being disrupted should a seat be unoccupied. In fact the "acoustically sensitive design" of the chair was a key factor behind its selection, according to Glyndebourne's House Manager, Jules Crocker.
The final design was hailed by Sir George Christie as a "Rolls Royce of a design." The chair forms a part of Glyndebourne's outstanding interior theatre architecture which has gained a string of awards including the 1994 Building Construction Industry Building Award, the 1994/5 Civic Trust Award for outstanding contribution to the quality of the environment and the 1994 Royal Fine Art Commission / Sunday Times Arts Building of the Year Award.
"We selected Audience Systems' seating for its refined appearance, acoustically sensitive design and high quality feel. We are delighted with the result."
Jules Crocker, House Manager, Glyndebourne Opera House
