Stadttheater Biel fit for the new season
The construction work at the Stadttheater Biel has been completed in time for the new season of the Theater Orchester Biel Solothurn TOBS. On April 21, 2016, the city council approved a construction loan of CHF 2.4 million for urgent maintenance work to maintain operations over the next few years.
The implemented measures include a new basic infrastructure for the stage technology. Safety on the stage was improved with an additional working gallery. The existing stage lighting control system was adapted to modern requirements. The sound system, video system and in-house communication systems had to be completely replaced. All stage curtains were replaced with non-flammable fabrics.
The legal requirements in terms of fire protection, safety and disabled access were also implemented. A new main fire compartment had to be created between the auditorium, stage and stairwell areas. The spread of fire to adjacent sections is now prevented by fire-resistant components.
As a publicly accessible building, the municipal theater was adapted to meet current standards regarding accessibility. The disabled WC was renovated and additional wheelchair spaces were created in the audience area. The escape route situation from the audience area had to be improved with information signals and new safety lighting.
The Stadttheater Biel has not been renovated since 1979 and no longer met today's requirements for a theater. The stage technology was very outdated and at least some of the electrical installations had to be replaced so that the theater could continue to operate in the coming years.
