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Arts circus will take to the road with an inflatable venue
Norwegian firm, Various Architects, have undertaken the design and engineering of a unique venue to host a series of arts performances in the world's biggest arena of it's kind. Mobile Performance Venue (MPV) is a 90 x 60 metres dynamic oval structure capable of holding 3500 people in a central performance space of 2000 sq m. The venue can also range from 10m to 17m tall.
MPV consists of the central performance chamber separate from an outer circle which hosts backstage and green rooms, office space, cloakrooms and toilet facilities. A mezzanine level is included in the design which will be able to cater for exhibitions or as a VIP area.
The venue has been specifically designed to suit the needs of the Arts Alliance Productions' 'ID – Identity of the Soul' production. The design accommodates five overhead cinema projectors in strategic positions around the circumference which project onto 12 x 7 meter screens. Live performance space was also necessary to accommodate dance performances which accompany the show.
The volume of the structure is constructed from interconnected, hexagonal inflatable modules in clear and white PVC. This structure is then supported by a ‘bicycle wheel’ truss providing lateral stability for the project and full or partial coverage of the performance space. Optional mesh or solid pvc covers will provide shade in hot dry climates or rain protection in wet countries.
Representing an ecological challenge, Various Architects believe the 100% recyclable inflatable elements of the design, which must be shipped to its destination when it moves, will significantly reduce any environmental impact. The entire project can be transported in 30 standard 40 ft containers (or 20 without the optional roof). The structure will require 2 weeks for assembly and one week for disassembly. Shown in some of these images in well-known locations around the world, the MPV is currently in its schematic design phase but is set for departure next year. Niki May Young
News Editor
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