Drama suites for year 9–13
When drama student numbers are growing, schools with a focus on the arts plan for a dedicated drama suite. Many schools have developed sophisticated drama suites, either purpose-built or by adapting an existing building. Such suites are often attached to an existing or new auditorium.
A drama suite usually includes:
- a number of flexible teaching spaces equipped with modern technology
- ample storage
- areas for study and research
- student changing areas
- teacher office/workroom
- access to a theatre.
Drama suites are often located close to other arts facilities. Much of the equipment needed for curriculum drama can be shared with dance and music classes.
The following six pages are for schools designing comprehensive drama suites. This advice requires resources beyond funding provided by the Ministry of Education. This advice does not cover equipment (like lighting and sound) but refers to these items at times, especially in terms of storage.
Other issues
Floors
Floors are a dilemma for designers of drama facilities. Specialists agree that concrete floors should be avoided. They are dangerous to fall or dance on, and unhelpful when sets need to be attached.
Concrete floors are often a problem when drama rooms are created by adapting existing buildings. However, the concrete can be topped with timber flooring (which can also create a sprung floor).
Some teachers prefer wooden floors (see the 'Sprung flooring' page in the Dance section of this site) with access to rolled carpet when needed.
For general drama rooms, many teachers prefer the comfort, warmth and acoustics of carpet, although carpet can impede movement.
Noise
Noise is an issue for drama programmes – both the sound levels created by drama classes, and noise coming into drama suites from outside.
Care should be taken in locating the drama suite – ideally not near to busy roads, playgrounds or sports fields, and not adjacent to general classrooms.
Attention could be given to acoustics and soundproofing – see the 'Soundproofing' page in the 'Music' section of this site.
Safety
Apart from the obvious building safety requirements, student and equipment safety is enhanced by features like:
- wide access doors
- broad shelving at appropriate heights
- careful placement of power points
- purpose-made lighting grids
- dedicated workshop spaces.
Catering for audiences
All drama rooms will be used as performance venues at times. Platforms or flexible tiered seating are needed to enable you to create whatever seating configuration is required.
Movable seating for audiences needs to be light and stackable out of the working space, but comfortable and quiet.
Schools need to be aware of fire, health, and safety issues when using drama suites as public performance venues. During planning, you need to consider fire regulations (exits), and health regulations (toilets). The Ministry of Education publishes health and safety guidelines – see the 'Ministry policies and guidelines' section.
Moving outdoors
Some drama suites make use of existing external features, such as walls and grass banks. This possibility should be considered at early stages of the design. A grassy bank, a grove of trees, or a natural amphitheatre can provide an outdoor theatre. (See the 'Moving outside' page in 'Music' section.)
Large doors opening onto a suitable outside area can turn the drama room into a stage, or into the audience area with the actors outside.
One school has large folding glass doors opening from its small auditorium onto the paved area outside. The doors are covered by folding wooden shutters on the inside, giving the effect of a solid wall when closed.