History
1938
The Scarsdale High School Auditorium was built as part of the 1938 school expansion and at the time it was considered a state-of-the-art facility. Originally designed as a gymnatorium, the space was created to function primarily as a gymnasium, with access to seating for other functions. As such, considerations like acoustics and lighting rigs were not a priority.
1958
The process of converting the space from a gymnatorium to a proper auditorium began in the late 1950s, when new gymnasiums were added to the High School, enabling the space to be used exclusively for gatherings and performances.
1980
The first significant renovations, however, did not take place until the early 1980s. This project included a number of upgrades and structural changes, including the removal of the mezzanine level. The ceiling clouds were added shortly after in an attempt to remediate poor acoustics in the space. This project brought seating up to its current level of 768 seats and a maximum capacity of 800 people.
1992
In 1992, wood paneling was added to the perimeter walls for aesthetic purposes, and as another attempt at improving the acoustics in the space.
2004
Between 2004 and 2008, a number of functional projects were completed to maximize student use of the space. These projects included the installation of the orchestra lift, which enables students to perform at stage level, audience level, or in a true orchestra pit. Other improvements included updates to the sound and lighting systems, and stage and woodwork refinishing. During this time, the curtain and rigging systems were also replaced.
2008-2012
From 2008-2012, there were no notable improvements made to the space due to budgetary constraints.
2014
In recognition of much-needed improvements, repairs and renovations were included in the 2014 Bond proposal. This was approved by voters in December 2014. The proposed scope of work included:
Mitigation of water intrusion issues beneath the stage area
Installation of new seating, house lights, aisle lighting, sound board, processor and wireless microphones
Unfortunately, only mitigation of the water issues were included in the final scope of work due to higher than anticipated costs associated with other aspects of the bond project, including the High School Design Lab, Edgewood Library addition and renovation and the Heathcote multi-purpose room addition.
2015
The first post 2014 Bond Scarsdale High School Auditorium planning committee was formed in 2015 after it was clear the proposed work was not to be included in the final scope of the 2014 Bond. Since that time, a version of the committee has met continually to research and study potential auditorium improvements.
The Committee has included a cross section of representative individuals from stakeholder groups including the K-12 Music and Performing Arts Coordinator, the Theater Coordinator, parent representative, facilities department representatives, High School Administration and District Administration. There has also been outreach to students and teachers for their input during this process. The work of this committee has continued through recent years as new individuals filled vacancies and brought fresh ideas and expertise with them. In recent years, the committee has made annual budget recommendations in an attempt to fulfill the promise of the original bond.
2019
Due to the committee’s advocacy and commitment to improving the space, several improvement projects have been included in annual budgets since that time. These projects addressed a number of safety issues, provided for a sound board replacement, and an upgrade of the house lights to an LED system. Throughout, the focus of the committee’s work has been to identify and prioritize auditorium renovations based on three major themes:
1. An enhanced, modern student learning experience.
2. An audience experience well matched to the use of the space.
3. Attention to safety and access.
2020-2021
Essential safety-focused work, including renovation of stage rigging, was accomplished as part of the 2020-21 Budget (Phase 1).
2021-2022
Some lighting improvements were accomplished through the 2021-2022 Budget (Phase 2a). This was achieved, in part, due to cost savings related to the new Theater Director's ability to do much of the work without the assistance of contractors.
2022
In the fall of 2022, the Auditorium Study Committee completed it's most recent review of the space, and presented the Board with their recommendations for completing safety and usability renovations to the space.
2023
As part of the overall budget development process, the Board of Education weighed whether to include the auditorium renovation within the annual budget, or whether to fund it through a bond.
Ultimately, the Board voiced support for the renovation, and determined a bond vote is the best way to fund it. That vote will take place on May 16, 2023 alongside the budget vote and board election.