Notable Features

The 2,251-seat performance hall is designed and constructed for exceptional acoustics and an intimate theater experience. Materials and shapes in Overture Hall were purposely manipulated to influence how sound reverberates and reflects inside the space, and control and isolate noise. As a result, the hall delivers rich, true sound throughout, reaching even to the back balcony. The design produces exemplary sound for unamplified orchestral and opera performances. Adjustable acoustical components are used to accommodate amplified shows.

Key components that contribute to the quality acoustics:

opaque, perforated acoustic ceiling panels conceal a deep air space between ceiling and roof
acoustic curtains above ceiling further control reverberations
fabric-wrapped panels in balcony walls move into position as needed for acoustics
balcony and box fronts paneled in figured English sycamore help reflect sound
orchestra shell and extensions keep tight reflections of sound in front
unusually tall proscenium allows acoustical volume of orchestra shell to blend with the volume of the house
acoustic isolation joints in structural framework of hall isolate interior space from exterior noise
lightly bowed, cast plaster interior wall panels isolate sound waves
sound locks in vestibules
movable curtains on back walls
sound-insulating doors between stage house and truck dock
low-noise air-handling system

Scaled to be a comfortably intimate hall, Overture is designed for people to see and be seen. Even from the balconies, stage and performers seem close. Before the lights go down, audience members can enjoy unobstructed views of each other, from the main level to balcony and boxes. Side circulation areas serve as minilobbies, informal gathering spots that provide a fluid, lively transition between spaces.
Elements that underscore the hall's intimacy and comfort:

sight lines are enhanced by the pitch of the balconies, curves of rows, positions of seats, configuration of side walls
seats have lumbar supports and range in width from 20- to 24-inches
generous spacing between rows improves circulation
continental seating arrangement eliminates aisles on balcony levels
accessible seats on every level and 38 wheelchair spaces
assisted-listening services provided
air-handling system features ducts beneath seats for cooling and heating without drafts

Overture Concert Organ

Overture Hall boasts a dedicated concert organ commissioned by the Madison Symphony Orchestra. Its handmade tin pipes, gold leaf accents and wave design reflect visual gestures incorporated throughout the hall. Built in Germany by the century-old firm of Orgelbau Klais Bonn, the Overture organ is a permanent fixture with its own impressive storage space at the back of the stage house.

Organ stats include:

craftsman construction using old-fashioned methods and handmade elements; wood harvested and cured for years
stored in "closet" approximately 18" x 65" and 62-feet high with stairs to reach the instrument
organ and enclosure together weigh approximately 350,000 Ibs.
organ moves into position on rails at a speed of one foot per minute
40-foot doors open to reveal organ and form side walls of orchestra shell; wood panels drop down to form ceiling
separate ventilation system in stage house includes temperature-controlled environment for organ

For more information about the organ, visit www.madisonsymphony.org/organ

Overture Hall Lobby

Glass exterior walls 75-feet-high. A light/white color palate. And two transparent-seeming grand staircases. These and other elements give the Overture Hall Lobby an impressive sense of volume and space. Designed as an essentially public space that visually erases the line between inside and out, the lobby invites an easy flow of people between the Overture Center's three levels.
Lobby details

curtain-wall window panes of 9' x 17' insulated low-iron glass, 1.5" thick are the largest manufactured to date
staircases with framework of steel, stone treads, low-iron glass and stainless steel railings, bronze handrails
floor constructed from tiles of Turkish travertine stone
light maple wood panels constitute the lobby ceiling
interior stone walls repeat the use of exterior French Montsegur limestone
wired as a performance or event space with audio and electrical outlets

Layout Diagram (pdf)