The Gaillard Performance Hall is a renovation of the Gaillard Municipal Auditorium. The building housed not only the auditorium, which served an important civic function, but an exhibit hall that was an important revenue source. FDA worked closely with David M Schwarz Architects and the Spoleto Festival starting in 2008 to re-envision the hall. We collaborated with the team to present the project to donors and the city of Charleston, and refine the project to fit the constituent’s needs.

The project moved forward in earnest starting in 2010 as a part renovation, part reconstruction of the existing hall, stagehouse, and exhibit facilities. The hall size was reduced to 1,800 seats to provide a much more intimate and impactful experience, as well as rearranging the seating configuration to bring the audience closer to the performer. We designed a renovated stagehouse, acoustical shell, new back-of-house and dressing room facilities, new rigging and lighting equipment, custom designed seating, and public facilities. All of these changes were tailored to fit the productions and programs appropriate for Charleston’s audience and market. The scope of the project was also expanded to include a new home for the city offices. FDA worked with the city, donors, and stakeholders to ensure that everyone’s needs were met.

Together with the restored historic Dock Street Theatre and the renovated Memminger Auditorium, the new Gaillard Center Performance Hall will complete Charleston’s acclaimed arts infrastructure.