A Star is Reborn: New Diva by Wenger Delivers Numerous Enhancements

	New Diva full-stage acoustical shell from Wenger at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion in The Woodlands, Texas.

Following its impressive 1995 debut, the newly redesigned Diva full-stage acoustical shell from Wenger Corp. features numerous functional and aesthetic improvements. Handling and setup are now easier, with more size and design options available.

Various enhancements simplify and speed the movement and positioning of Diva towers, including a built-in handle on the tower base. The new air mover is lighter weight and more maneuverable than the previous model, with easier attachment to the tower frame via a new hook assembly. A non-motorized wheeled mover is also available, with swivel casters providing smooth movement in any direction.

Structurally, larger Diva shells can now be specified because of the modified frame and ceiling truss. A stronger, simplified frame extrusion increases the maximum tower height by eight feet (2.4m) -- up to 40' (12.2m) total. The redesigned extruded ceiling truss/raceway now accommodates more ceiling lights, which larger shells require.

New Diva towers feature a narrower vertical trim strip, now integrated into the panel edges. This more subtle feature gives architects and designers greater aesthetic flexibility; this trim strip can be finished a variety of ways -- painted, anodized, wood grain, etc.

For any size Diva shell, designers can specify finish options that integrate the design of the shell's towers and ceiling panels into the overall performance environment. Although constructed on a common framework, each Diva shell is customized to unique design criteria.

Wenger has hundreds of custom acoustical shells installed around the world in premier performing arts venues in North and South America, Europe, Middle East, and Asia. All these shells are manufactured in Wenger's ISO-certified manufacturing facility in Owatonna, Minnesota. Wenger also offers complete installation services, on-site training, and a five-year warranty.

One of the first installations of the new Diva shell was at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, Texas. Their previous Wenger shell was from 1990.

"When replacing our original Wenger shell, we considered its longevity and the company's excellent reputation," notes Jeff Young, vice president of operations. "Technology improvements mean our new Diva shell is easier to set up, take down, and put away."