Ura Seeger Memorial Auditorium

The new Ura Seeger Memorial Auditorium at Seeger Jr./Sr. High School provides much-needed space for music and theater classes. Furthermore, it has become a new community asset as the largest performing arts venue in the county. When MSD Warren County Schools set out to develop this facility, they envisioned three primary objectives: (1) create a 1,500-seat auditorium to host a wide spectrum of student performances, (2) incorporate state-of-the-art lighting and sound controls packed with professional-level functionality, and (3) enable all components to be student-driven, thereby facilitating career pathways and teachable moments. The result is both professional-level and incredibly flexible, yet it is also easily managed by student groups.

The design of the exterior façade takes inspiration from the existing adjacent school through color, materials, and strong horizontal lines and rhythms. It also creates a monumental, contemporary focal point as the terminus of the entry drive.

The interior design of the facility draws from school colors with slightly muted hues to provide a more sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. The two-story entry lobby contains ample pre-function space and connects to the existing school. The interior of the auditorium seating can be divided in half with a divider curtain to create a more intimate space for small performances. A “hybrid” orchestra pit with pit cover at the edge of the stage accommodates a variety of performances, and a 36-by-16-foot LED screen suspended from the fly loft at the back of the stage offers crystal clear animation. Back-of-house spaces include dressing rooms, green room, and a scenery shop with storage.

As the community members celebrate the passing of Covid-19 woes, they look forward to attending many events in the new venue.

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