TPMC

The view from stage

The new Sanctuary

The Multi Purpose Hall

The Soundcraft Vi1 digital console

I've been in Singapore the last few days testing and commissioning the technical systems in TPMC. This project has been going on for a while now and I've been waiting with eager anticipation for its completion. Just to give you some background - the TPMC project is a renovation of the existing hall with two new halls being added to the building; I was engaged as consultant for the two new spaces.

The new sanctuary seats 900 plus, while the multi purpose hall(MPH) seats 300. The MPH was completed last year and the sanctuary just a few weeks ago. The technical design had to be tailored to the unique shape of the sanctuary, the architects Laud, had designed an assymetrical plan layout. The audio system was a true stereo design consisting of EAW AX series loudspeakers. The narrower layout of the sanctuary meant that this was a possibility right from the start. EASE modeling comfirmed that the time integration needed for stereo imaging was possible. Final testing yesterday confirmed that there was stereo imaging over the majority of the seating areas. The console was a Soundcraft Vi1, one of the first to be installed in Singapore.

Stage lighting consisted of a mixture of PAR cans, ETC Source 4 ellipsoidals and parnels on 4 motorised bars over stage and a catwalk in the house. Control was via an Avolites Tiger - a small but powerful fella, with future addition of movers as part of the longer term plan.

Video projection was through a Panasonic 10K lumens machine with Extron switching. The image was projected on the rear stage wall which was painted matte white as part of a feature wall.

Acoustics consisted of baffle absorbers installed at high level and in the rear of the hall. There are a series of diffussive elements incorporated in the feature wall as part of the interior design. The reverberation time at mid frequencies is 1 second and the sound in the sanctuary is warm and detailed. There are some issues with the airconditioning system, but these will be sorted out in due time.

All in all, I had a great time with KT from TPMC and E&E the contractors.