PROJECTS:

LJ WILLIAMS THEATER

What is THE L.J. Williams Theatre?

The L.J. Williams Theater, located in Visalia, California, is a significant cultural and historical venue with ties to the local educational and performing arts communities. Originally built in the 1930s, the theater is situated on the Redwood High School campus. It was named after Lawrence J. Williams, who was not only an instructor and principal at Visalia Union High School but also served as the first President of College of the Sequoias. This establishment has played a pivotal role in the local arts scene, hosting a wide array of events including concerts, plays, and other artistic performances​​.

Revitalizing a Legacy: The L.J. Williams Theatre Transformation

Recent efforts to restore and enhance the Rotary Theatre have been significant. In 2021, marking 100 years of Rotary Service in Visalia, the Rotary Clubs led a comprehensive revitalization project. This project included new theater seating, flooring, lighting, and the installation of a new electronic sign among other upgrades. These enhancements were aimed at restoring the sparkle to the Rotary Theatre and ensuring its continued status as a cherished venue for the community. The rehabilitation efforts included the installation of new LED stage lighting to enhance performances and simplify maintenance, as well as converting classrooms into backstage dressing rooms. These efforts were part of a broader initiative to maintain the theatre’s legacy while accommodating modern performance need.

Our solution and what we did:

For too long, the iconic L.J. Williams Theatre struggled with outdated sound systems and poor lighting, limiting its potential. Recognizing the need for modernization, the Visalia Unified School District (VUSD) chose NTM to revitalize this important community venue. Our goal was simple: to bring the L.J. Williams Theatre into a new era of performance art, while respecting its rich history. We started by thoroughly assessing the theatre's existing infrastructure, setting the stage for a transformation that would combine modern technology with the venue's timeless charm.

Sound System Overhaul: We began by replacing the old audio equipment with a new, state-of-the-art sound system. This system was designed for clarity, depth, and richness, ensuring that every sound reaches the audience exactly as the performers intended.

Lighting Upgrade: Next, we revamped the lighting, replacing the old, dull lights with a dynamic system capable of creating the perfect atmosphere for every scene. This upgrade not only enhances the visual experience for the audience but also gives directors more tools to tell their stories.

NTM, along with VUSD, is proud to be part of this exciting transformation. We are committed to providing a venue that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of today's audiences and performers.

LET’S TALK

We understand that the Audio, Video, and Lighting world can be daunting. We don’t expect you to figure it out on your own.