Remaking the Play Circle
By Emily Connor
In the 1930s, the Wisconsin Union constructed the Fredric March Play Circle Theater. Although original plans intended the Play Circle to be much larger, it was scaled back due to budget issues that arose just before construction.
The Play Circle ended up being designed as an experimental theater, with three stages instead of one. The idea was that a three-act play could be staged with
each act set on a different stage, and the audience members would simply be able to turn their heads to view the next act. The studio rooms were built overlooking the Play Circle, to allow for radio broadcasts or instruction and observation without interfering with the performance.
Although this was an interesting idea, the experiment never worked as intended. The idea of three small stages with just one seating area did not succeed and was quickly abandoned.
Today, the Play Circle’s past construction woes have created modern-day dilemmas. Esty Dinur, Union Theater marketing manager, says the the current configuration creates multiple issues for performance groups. “With a lack of cross-over space, wing space and storage it makes it difficult to put on usual performances,” said Esty. “Even though groups have been creative in working with the challenges of the space, it is still difficult.”
The Play Circle has significant acoustic limitations including erratic heating and cooling, poor ventilation, uncomfortable fixed seating and limited stage size. Theatrical limitations like minimal wing and backstage space and poor lighting also make it a difficult space. The stages can also only be accessed by stairs, which means the space is inaccessible by Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
Although it was once home for the Wisconsin Union Directorate film committee, the construction of theMarquee at Union South has given the group a new updated space that better suits their needs. Today, the Play Circle is primarily used for small lectures, performances and meetings.
What’s in store for the Play Circle?
Renovations to the Play Circle will make the space larger and more flexible. It will have modern theatrical and performance abilities, including new lighting and sound systems. In addition, more wing space, backstage areas and dressing rooms will give performers the space they need to give their best performances.
The new Play Circle also includes a plan to install telescopic seating. The large, comfortable theater seats will sit on pedestals that can be folded back into the wall, like traditional gymnasium bleachers. For a theatrical performance or lecture, the seats can be pulled out for great views of the stage from every seat. For a comedy performance–whether student improvisation group or a touring stand-up comedian–the seats can be retracted and cabaret-style tables and chairs can be set up.
With some new additions and improvements, the Play Circle will finally become the fully functional venue it was intended to be more than 70 years after its construction.
Note: Renderings of Play Circle are only preliminary. Interior design decisions will be made in the coming months.
