Couch, taking an Arkansas Times reporter and photographer on a recent tour, couldn't contain his enthusiasm for the extras that put this hall in a special class - especially the sound system. And, besides the sound monitors and jacks at almost every turn, plus a rehearsal room in back that has enough equipment to serve as a recording studio, the place is wired throughout for television cameras. Tom Fennell of Little Rock designed the hall, which has 859 seats on the floor level and the other 340 in a balcony that leaves one feeling close to the stage. Jack Hagler of PMK, one of the leading companies in building performance halls, was hired as theatrical consultant. PSC Sound in Dallas, a world leader, wired the hall.
Every amenity appears to be top of the line.
A Harlequin Marley rubberized linoleum dance floor awaits behind the stage for the Parsons Dance Co. show on Oct. 16. The orchestra pit can be raised and lowered by hydraulics. A 40-channel Mackie sound board will control the audio, and the immense light board can be computer programmed so that not a button has to be pushed after a show begins. A large loading area offers room for the bigger shows to move in and out with ease, and dressing rooms are spacious. In staying true to the school's predominant color, the hall has a purple theme, but not in a gaudy way.