The Dominion Theatre, a renowned West End venue on Tottenham Court Road, embarked on a major electrical upgrade to enhance its infrastructure. The theatre’s team recognised the need for an electrical supply and distribution system overhaul. To tackle this ambitious project, they enlisted the expertise of Push The Button (PTB). This comprehensive renovation aimed to future-proof the theatre, ensuring its readiness for incoming shows while continuing to support its permanent tenant, Hillsong. While the theatre had a planned nine-month closure for this extensive project, PTB had to kickstart their preparations earlier. They efficiently began the groundwork during the last three months of the “Bat Out Of Hell” show, ensuring a seamless transition without interrupting the ongoing Hillsong Sunday service.
The Dominion Theatre, with a rich history dating back to 1929, began life as a musical theatre but shortly after transitioned to become a cinema. In 1981 the venue once again became a live performance venue. It’s been home to numerous shows, including the iconic “We Will Rock You,” which ran from 2002 to 2014. Recently, the theatre underwent extensive refurbishments. Today, it boasts a seating capacity of up to 2,163 seats and hosts Hillsong Church services every Sunday alongside a schedule of theatre performances.
The Flat Stage Project
To prepare for a new incoming supply, PTB installed a custom-made 1000amp main switch for building isolation in proximity to the incoming supply. This was a significant improvement, as the previous setup lacked nearby isolation for the then four incoming supplies. To ensure uninterrupted operations during the transition, PTB also set up temporary power using a 400A generator with a fuel tank.
With the temporary power solution in place, PTB proceeded to shut down and remove the old incoming mains to facilitate the connection of a new supply by UK Power Networks (UKPN). The installation of a new 42-way Schneider Electric MCCB mains distribution, featuring twenty one CT meters, allows the theatre to monitor the sub-distribution circuits closely. Additionally, two more Schneider Electric MCCB distribution panels were installed. One, a 12-way panel, feeds six 96-way sensor racks that had been retained from the previous installation but were relocated to a new position in the dimmer room. The other, an 18-way panel, acts as sub-distribution to local distribution boards throughout the theatre. The distribution system was meticulously tested and is labelled with “as-fitted drawings” provided upon completion.
As part of the refresh, the Dominion Theatre replaced its existing stage with a new modular, removable stage. PTB adapted to this change by installing new 300mm ladder, trunking, and baskets to accommodate the stage’s flexibility without affecting the electrical installation. Furthermore, PTB extended new power and lighting to the substage, orchestra pit, boiler and plant rooms, as well as the corridors.
The Comm’s Room, previously located substage, was moved to facilitate the removable stage. PTB handled the relocation by disconnecting the existing racks and moving them between the two new Comm’s Rooms. Half of the existing cables proved insufficient in length, necessitating PTB to replace them and establish new cable routes. The scheme included HD, SD, CAT 5E, CAT 6, and speaker cables.
During the installation, PTB identified issues with previous electrical work throughout the entire theatre, both Front of House and Back of House, requiring significant attention to rectify potential safety hazards.
The Stage Door Refurbishment Project
While the back-of-house area was slated for closure during the electrical supply refresh, the Dominion Theatre decided it was an opportune time to revamp the stage door area. The plans included reconfiguring the space to accommodate wheelchair access via a new DA lift.
PTB responded by disconnecting and removing all electrical circuits to the stage door area. They also relocated existing distribution boards to make room for the updated wheelchair access. Additional distribution boards were installed to expand the number of available circuits. New lighting and power circuits were added to ensure compliance with BS7671 standards, including additional RCOB protection.
With the electrical installation complete, PTB installed Ansell downlighters to illuminate the area. A digital media screen with digital media player software was added, along with bespoke LED lighting to enhance the new stage door desk and bulkhead, all controlled by an ETC Echo touch screen. The LED illumination extended outside, enhancing signage lighting.
Additionally, a new intercom system was introduced for stage door entry, and a refuge call point alarm system was installed. The main control panel was placed at the stage door, with call stations positioned around the theatre in both Front of House and Back Of House areas.
The Milburn Suite Project
As part of the theatre’s refurbishment efforts to create an improved merchandise area, the Dominion Theatre established a new space called the Milburn Suite. PTB’s work included removing all existing circuits in the area and replacing them to accommodate a multipurpose space. The new circuits supplied roller shutters, lighting and outlets for tills, as well as the flexibility for a pop-up bar area when needed. LED lighting illuminated the bulkhead, controlled by an ETC Echo touch screen, while Ansell downlights provided ambient light. A key override feature allowed the theatre to easily blackout the Ansell downlights, leaving only the LED bulkhead lighting.
The Show Relay Speaker Project
The Dominion Theatre’s existing show relay system had become outdated and was due for a replacement. PTB undertook the complete removal of the old system, including all wiring. New containment, including basket and galvanised conduit was installed on all levels, extending into areas that were previously beyond the reach of the old system. A total of eighty five show relay/paging speakers were installed throughout all Back of House areas and select Front of House changing areas. Additionally, seventy nine speakers with a single volume pot were placed in all rooms in the theatre, while six speakers with double pots were strategically positioned to allow separate control of the calls and show relay. All of these speakers terminated in an audio rack where they connected with new amplifiers and a processor.
Despite the considerable challenges posed by a project of this scale, PTB managed to deliver the project on budget and on schedule. Jonathan Dixon, Property Services Manager at Nederlander Theatres, commended PTB’s contributions to the project’s success, highlighting their attention to detail, outstanding quality, and dedication to delivering an electrical installation built to last for many years. PTB’s engineers demonstrated a remarkable level of pride, passion, and resilience, ensuring the project exceeded expectations and reflected the highest standards of customer care. PTB emerged as a forward-thinking company committed to delivering exceptional results.
This comprehensive electrical renovation not only modernised the Dominion Theatre’s infrastructure but also ensures its continued success and safety for the years to come.