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The two directors of the Circus Juventas contacted Locus seven months prior to opening their facility. They were in crisis. With a 20,000 square foot slab already poured, and utilities in place for the “big top” performing center and school (for children and adolescents), directors Bette and Dan Butler agreed the lobby entry needed more panache and style than the lobby depicted in their construction set. Instead of working with their previous architect, they came to us. “We’re on a tight budget and time schedule, but can you help us create the environment we want?” they asked. We scrapped the design outlined in the set and started anew, working with the Butlers in situ to define a conceptual tactic for the lobby and entry sequence. We decided to extend the performance space into the interstitial space of the lobby. Prior to showtime - on catwalks, ladders, and plinths - circus performers mill about, above, around and under spectators arriving for a performance. A combination of reflective fabrics and lighting provides spaces for moving, hiding, performing and surprise over the entry, ticket booths, circulation, and concessions. In the middle of it all, a central suspended “bug” hovers, hiding the mechanics of the control booth. With just enough time, we packed up our tools two hours before the opening night gala. TOP |
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