New Flexible Curtain System To Provide 1,000+ Seat Venue Option

The Morrison Center announces a new 1,000 plus seating configuration that will provide university users, local arts groups and national promoters with a reduced seating capacity option. By masking off the theatre's balcony with a dedicated pipe and drape curtain system, in conjunction with modified lighting settings, the 2,037-seat venue is transformed into an intimate proscenium stage that can effectively seat between 900 and 1,300 patrons utilizing only the venue's orchestra level.

"The Velma V. Morrison Center is Idaho's premier performing arts center and it is important that the venue be as flexible and inclusive as possible," said Executive Director, James Patrick. "The new curtain system is directly in line with our mission of providing access and opportunity to both the local and national presenting community, ensuring that the Center remains the focal point for world-class arts, culture and entertainment in the Treasure Valley and beyond. This new curtain system not only provides a vital aesthetic value, but also enhances acoustics, while allowing the Center to offer a more affordable entry level rental fee structure for users requiring fewer seats. This 1,000 plus seat configuration will be a wonderful alternative for certain mission-driven programs such as dance, jazz, classical and family offerings, as well as allow the Center and others to present a wider array of concerts and national entertainers."

The Center has been experimenting with the reduced configuration for months to find the proper solution.

Ballet Idaho is expected to use the new curtain system for their 2012-2013 repertory performances. The performances are being moved from Boise State University's 400 plus seat Special Events Center to the Morrison Center thanks in part to funding provided by the Morrison Center Endowment Foundation, Inc.

"We are very pleased that the Morrison Center is making the new flexible curtain system available to their user groups," said Paul Kaine, Executive Director of Ballet Idaho. "The new curtain system will provide us with the capability to create a more intimate atmosphere and experience for our audiences, especially for our mixed repertory programs."

For more information, visit www.morrisoncenter.com.