Vortek Showcases Hoists at Nazareth College Renovated Callahan Theatre

Vortek theatre rigging will be unveiled at the newly renovated Nazareth College Callahan Theatre in Rochester, New York. The updated Arthur J. and Marie M. Callahan Theatre's unveiling is scheduled for September 26, part of the week-long grand opening celebration. Vortek, a division of Daktronics, is a Rochester area manufacturer of theatrical rigging equipment.

"From around the globe to our own back yard, Vortek continues to provide the highest quality rigging solutions available today. We are very proud to have been involved in this project as it gives us the opportunity to see our products perform locally as well as solve real world installation challenges," said Dave Rossi, Vortek operations manager.

Rochester's showcase for dance, children's theatre, and international entertainment, the 42-year-old Callahan Theatre's renovation includes transformation of the stage from a thrust to a hybrid between thrust and proscenium, as well as the installation of a Vortek Pro Series automated rigging system. Completed July 21, the 30 Vortek Pro Series Hoists and a Vortek Automation Center will allow technical crews to move sets, lights and other stage materials quickly on and off stage.

"Originally built in 1967 as a thrust stage theatre, it has several unique features. As a result, it had very limited rigging capabilities," said the theatre consultant, Steve Walker of Steve A Walker & Associates. "The use of the Vortek hoists allows the limited height available above stage to be used."

"Using Vortek hoists on the Callahan stage was the only way to allow for full travel of the theatrical rigging system. Additionally, the capability to mount the hoists in a variety of configurations improved the loading condition on the existing building structure, thus minimizing changes to the structural framing during the renovation," said Ted Paget, Vortek sales manager. The Vortek dealer involved in the project is Secoa, Champlin, Minnesota. The architect, Kevin Marren, of LaBella Associates, and Wilmorite Management Group, both of Rochester were also involved in the project.