That's just a wee bit of a general question and any responses could vary greatly depending upon the existing systems and physical space, the extent of the renovation, the envisioned general use and functionality of the space, the project budget and many other factors.
Very true. The other situation that often arises is that the Consultant may agree with the Technician but may decide to, or be forced to, compromise on certain issues in order to not compromise on others.I read an interesting point on the stagecraft list about conflicts between technicians and consultants. Every technician thinks he could have done a better job than the venue's designers. I've said before I've never worked in a space where I thought something should have been designed differently. The consultant made the point that the building will, most-likely, outlive its occupants.
A very good suggestion, if you identified where you are located people may also be able to suggest some firms in that area, although with modern communications being physically local is no longer the issue it once was.Start at American Society of Theatre Consultants to locate a Theatre Consultant appropriate to your needs.
Classic example. The New York State Theatre, recently renamed the David H. Koch Theater. Primary tenant (for whom the theatre was built in 1964) is the New York City Ballet, which requires a sprung stage floor. Secondary tenant is the New York City Opera, which desires a stiff floor for acoustics and to be able to roll heavy scenic pieces. For years the NYCO has tried to find an alternative venue, or raise funds to build its own. There may be truth in the old adage "A multi-purpose space is a no-purpose space" after all....One of the worst situations is when different groups within the "Owner's" team have significantly different visions for the facility that are never reconciled. ...
I think it's been said above, but get a theatre consultant who knows how to delegate portions of the space to specialists. If a new sound system is in order, you need an acoustical consultant to help with architectural issues, plus a sound engineering consultant to help you select the right equipment. You need a lighting consultant to ensure you get the lighting system you need. Ask lots of questions, and think hard about odd situations that might require creative solutions. Also, err on the side of caution when it comes to connections and what not - always spring for the extra run if you can shoehorn it in.
BTW, as far as sound goes, think long and hard about the gear you get. Spring for the best gear you can afford - but get gear you'll actually USE. It's amazing how much gear can go unused because someone thought it would be useful one day...
Make sure your consultants speak to each other as well. My audio and lighting consultants never met, and the two groups designed installs where equipment from each side interferes with the other side.What you may end up with is one company who does the audio consulting, and another who does the install. The guys from the install company probably do a lot more work with audio equipment, especially for gigs, not just installing. You may want to ask them their opinion of the consultants ahead of time, as they very well are likely to be professionals who have not only installed the consultant's systems, but have worked in venues with their systems and know the little problems that usually get overlooked or ignored.
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