Hiring the New Empire Theatre - General Information

Hiring the Theatre

General information

Please read this information,
We operate slightly differently from other venues you may have used.

Different from other theatres . . .

The New Empire Theatre is a self-funded project currently run on a voluntary basis. All the work on the refurbishment of the building and the maintenance of the theatres is carried out in-house by a small team of dedicated people. Work is on-going as we continue to make improvements to all our performance areas, and we are constantly receiving donated equipment and materials. Because of this, the building and its contents are continually changing, and so any technical details will also be subject to change. Normally this is for the better and we will only be adding to what is already detailed below, however once you have confirmed your booking, please stay in contact with the theatre to keep updated on any changes.

FAQ

Can We come and have a look?

If you wish to come to the theatre and have a look (for companies new to the theatre this is advised), or if you have specific questions for the management and technical team relating to your show, an appointment should be made in advance with the theatre. On spec meetings and visits are not welcome, to guarantee you get our undivided attention it is best to come down at a pre-arranged time. Perhaps your questions can be answered by a simple phone call, by contacting the theatre direct.

What do we get?

Hire of the theatres includes access to and use of stage, dressing rooms, auditorium, merchandise counter and patrons' bar.

The hire fee includes Front of House Staff and Bar Staff (this does not include programme sellers), full use of sound and lighting equipment, operated by two fully qualified technicians.

The theatre auditorium, foyer and dressing rooms are cleaned by the staff at the theatre. However, it would be extremely helpful if visiting companies could keep their dressing rooms clean and tidy, use the rubbish bins provided for litter, and pick up rubbish left lying around on the floor.

Who operates the equipment?

Sound and lighting equipment can only be operated by the in-house technicians unless prior arrangements have been made to the satisfaction of the theatre. Followspots, flys and prompt desk facilities are also available, but advance notification is required for the casual staff to operate these if you cannot provide your own, an additional cost is incurred for this service.

Is the equipment included in the price?

The hire includes any equipment already on site (see general equipment and venues page), with the exclusion of our newly acquired moving lights and our radio mics, for which we charge a nominal hire fee per mic used and for batteries. Should you require music stands for an orchestra or band, these can also be hired through the theatre by prior arrangement.

What types of media can you accept?

For a list of accepted media types please see general equipment. In addition to this, the Denon DN 2000F CD Players do not generally like to play CD media that has been burnt using a computer. Our preferred medium for accuracy and reliability is Minidisc (Single Play ONLY). If you have any further questions please contact us.

How long can we stay?

The theatre has the right to charge for extra hours outside the times stated on the contract, at its discretion. Should you need to work later than the times specified on the contract, or come in on a day not specified, prior arrangement must be made with the theatre.

Companies are also required to remove from the theatre all their equipment, scenery, costumes and props on the night of their last performance. Failure to take your things with you on final departure may result in them being thrown away or a charge for storage. The theatre does not have the facilities to dispose of unwanted scenery and other items, and companies are required to take EVERYTHING with them, even if they don't need it any more. If you have a valid reason for not being able to remove your things on the night of your last show, arrangements must be made with the theatre for a suitable time to do this, prior to your show and well in advance. Please remember you are not the only company using the theatre, and the next people using the venue do not want to be climbing over and working round scenery/props etc. left by someone else.

Safety and Security

Full video surveillance equipment is in operation throughout the building. All exits and corridors are monitored by CCTV cameras and recorded onto video tapes. Still pictures can be taken and printed onto paper.

All access points to the stage and backstage area (including the Stage Door) are fitted with coded security locks. When necessary, visiting companies will be issued with their own number to allow access to the theatre. Access to the dressing rooms from the Front of House is protected with alarmed doors, to ensure the safety and security of the dressing room areas.

There is a full fire alarm system installed, the theatre holds all necessary documents and certification to enable us to hold an entertainments licence.

The theatre has a strict health and safety policy, a copy of the theatre risk assessment is available on written request.

The theatre has the right to refuse the use of equipment that is deemed unsafe. If you are building your own scenery/props, or bringing your own sound/lighting equipment, please ensure it is safe to use, and if necessary electrically tested to current safety requirements.

Television receiving equipment must not be brought into the theatre as we do not hold a current TV Licence.

Are there any hard and fast rules?

Normal theatre rules apply, click here for a full list

Future Plans

We also have plans for a Crew room with toilet, fitted kitchen, shower and laundry to be available in the near future. As previously mentioned, we are continuously changing the theatre, it's equipment and the facilities available. Please stay in contact with the theatre to keep up to date with any changes which may affect you.

Where can we get extra effects, props and scenery?

For extra lighting, special effects, props and stage make-up, please contact Tee-Pee Lighting on 01268 566844.

Re Pyrotechnics: Due to local council licensing, for certain pyrotechnics effects the theatre requires 28 days notice.

For additional scenery, large props and cloths, our nearest supplier is Paul Lazell who can be contacted on 07885 489 9130.

Should you require a photographer the theatre has the numbers of some local professionals.

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