The New Riga Theatre (JRT) has undergone a major transformation: the historic building was connected to the new extension, creating a functional and aesthetically balanced environment. The old part has preserved the unique atmosphere of more than century-old building, while the newly constructed five-story volume accommodates two Black Box halls, rehearsal rooms and spaces for actors. The result of the reconstruction embodies the concept of a “theatre as a home,” nurtured by its’ artistic director Alvis Hermanis, which brings under the spotlight personalized approach to each and every theatre process.
In this project, the KRASSKY team was responsible for lighting of the facade and interior. Since the theatre building is an architectural monument, it was necessary to develop delicate and intelligent lighting solutions. Taking into account unique features of a theatre, the lighting design includes various scenarios that organically enhance the overall dramaturgy of the space. All lighting solutions used in this project meet sustainability and ecological standards, ensuring the longest possible LED lifespan with minimal light intensity loss.
One of the project’s most striking elements is the 34-meter-high stage fly tower that rises above the surrounding rooftops like a beacon, drawing the attention of theatre visitors and city dwellers. The tower’s robust yet elegant character is emphasized by metal walls with vertical curved edges. An integrated lighting here creates an impressive interplay of light and shadow, making the tower visible in the darker hours. As a refined addition to the lighting design, facade is adorned with swan figures above the windows, complemented by tile mosaics from Sicis—a special gift to the theatre from the KRASSKY showroom. Additionally, the former narrow entryway that connected Lāčplēša Street to the theatre’s courtyard has been transformed into a bright entrance gallery. Outdoors, the lighting creates a genuine theatrical atmosphere: the facade, entrance gallery and theatre courtyard are illuminated in a unified style, using products from Erco, Flos, and Simes.
In the Grand Hall, one of the theatre’s most significant spaces, the historical essence was preserved and highlighted by restoring interior elements of the 1930’s. Original central chandelier was seamlessly integrated into the modern lighting system that also features contemporary fixtures, such as white spherical lamps by Osmont, placed along the stairwells leading to the Grand Hall. The space’s functionality is enhanced by the high-quality lighting solutions, ensuring that theatre-goers fully immerse into theatre experience and enjoy their time during intermissions.
The design of the Black Box halls incorporates multi-layered lighting principles. This allows adjusting the lighting environment to various experimental and interactive productions. For example, strong yet non-blinding technical lighting is used by theatre artists when designing sets. Rather powerful, but narrowly directed lighting in the audience zone meets comfort and safety standards while enhancing the hall’s aesthetics. Blue lighting close to the floor level is used during performances — it does not interfere with the filming process while providing enough illumination for theatre staff to move safely in the dark. The Black Box hall also includes a function of a complete blackout, which may become a significant part of production’s dramaturgy.
A thought-through lighting was installed in actors’ make-up rooms, designed for creative breaks and relaxation. These spaces are illuminated with lamps from the French brand DCWéditions.
KRASSKY team’s work on this project proves that it is possible to achieve high-quality lighting scenarios through innovative solutions and effective planning, even with a limited budget. The final result enhances intuitive navigation within the theatre for both visitors and staff while emphasizing the building’s architectural values and interior concept. The New Riga Theater project has received the highest recognition—the Grand Prix at the Latvian Architecture Award 2024.
Author: Zaigas Gailes Birojs, Sarma & Norde Architects
Project Team: Anna Ļaļko, Aldis Gavrovskis
Year: 2024
Location: Lāčplēša Street 25, Riga
Area: 9767 m2
