Medium Structures - 2024DA - MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre

ID NUMBER  2284 
ENTRY CATEGORY    2 – Medium structures
ENTRANT ROLE    Designer / Installer
PROJECT NAME: MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre 
APPLICATION:       Amphitheatre canopy 

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre stands as a testament to innovative design meeting environmental challenges. Covering 6,792 square feet, and constructed with PVC TX30 material for durability and weather resistance, it offers exceptional acoustics and a versatile venue for concerts, plays, lectures, and cultural events, ensuring a premier outdoor experience for performers and audiences alike.

DESIGN / FABRICATION / INSTALLATION BRIEF

Missouri State University (MSU) sought to construct a versatile outdoor amphitheatre for diverse performances and events, including concerts, theatre, lectures, and cultural activities.

Key challenges included addressing outdoor conditions like rain, wind, and sun exposure, as well as ensuring effective sound absorption for optimal audio quality. The design also needed to incorporate MSU’s tradition of Tent Theatre, which involves annual performances in temporary structures.

The amphitheatre was designed to be a multifunctional space capable of hosting a variety of events.

We addressed weather challenges with weather-resistant materials and retractable awnings and ensured high-quality acoustics with advanced sound absorption techniques. The design honoured MSU’s Tent Theatre tradition by integrating elements reminiscent of the temporary structures, thereby celebrating the university's cultural heritage while providing a modern, adaptable venue for both educational and artistic purposes.

STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

The structural system of the project was carefully designed to incorporate a series of structural gutters seamlessly integrated between each bay. This innovative approach not only enhanced the architectural aesthetics but also ensured robust structural integrity throughout the entire framework.

Moreover, the fabric and extrusions were skilfully curved in two directions, creating a dynamic sense of volume and spatial complexity. This design choice not only added visual interest but also contributed to the overall functionality of the space by accommodating various functional requirements.

In addition to its structural and aesthetic contributions, the project's design included a thoughtful integration of electrical conduits concealed within the structural tubes. This strategic placement not only maintained the clean lines and streamlined appearance of the structure but also optimised the use of space and minimised visual clutter.

MATERIALS

MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre exemplifies a meticulous approach to material selection and design innovation to achieve functional excellence and aesthetic harmony in outdoor architecture. PVC TX30 was chosen due to its proven resilience and weather resistance, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. The design solution focused on visual lightness through a slender double-column structure that discreetly integrates dual skins, elegantly concealing structural elements while accentuating the membrane structure's beauty.  

Incorporating glazing elements promoted translucency, enhancing the user experience by creating a seamless interaction between interior and exterior spaces. Additionally, the use of suspended skylights pays homage to historical tent theatre aesthetics, enriching the project with a sense of tradition and cultural relevance. This holistic approach not only meets but exceeds the project's functional requirements, setting a new standard for outdoor architectural design.

FABRICATION

For the MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre, steel fabrication was performed in the US, adhering to high standards. The steel was specified as AESS Category 3, requiring a superior finish. Advanced CNC machines ensured precise cutting and shaping, while a high-level welding QA review system provided consistent, high-quality joints. The steel was meticulously prepared with grinding and sanding for a flawless surface, essential for the high aesthetic standards. Rigorous inspection processes, including both visual and automated measurements, ensured that all components met the exacting tolerances and finish required. This meticulous approach guaranteed both structural integrity and exceptional visual appeal.

COLLABORATION, CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

For the MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre, collaboration, construction, and maintenance were executed with precision. The collaboration involved close coordination with lighting consultants, stage designers, riggers, and university representatives, ensuring every structural element was tailored to meet the amphitheatre's specific needs. Construction employed advanced engineering techniques and high-quality materials to seamlessly integrate lighting, stage, and rigging systems. This meticulous process ensured a robust and functional structure. The maintenance program includes regular inspections and proactive maintenance of structural components and performance systems to address issues early and ensure optimal conditions.

COSTS

The MSU John Goodman Amphitheatre project was valued at approximately AUD$1.65m 

COLOUR IMAGES - See Credits below gallery