The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, completed in 2017, is a next-generation performance venue that reflects Chicago Shakespeare's multi-faceted artistic vision. The project features a new flexible theater and glazed two-story lobby and reception space, with magnificent views of Lake Michigan, that connects to the existing theater at Navy Pier. Consisting of 35,000 sf of space, the project introduces a global trend in theater architecture that focuses on resourceful, sustainable, and adaptive design. Located adjacent to the existing theater, the new theater is artfully tucked beneath the existing signature white tent and above the existing parking garage. The new theater shares the existing stage house and backstage support spaces.
To mitigate glare and heat, the lobby facade uses electrochromic glass. Designed with daylight sensors on the roof, the facade gradually tints when sunlight passes across its southern face. This unique technologically solution, is highly sustainable as it will reduce heat gain and cooling needs. The glass tints to four different settings: 60%, 18%, 6%, and 1% visible light transmission. When the glass is turned on, the exterior darkens and increases in reflectivity. The geometry of the faceted curve creates optical illusions and dynamic reflections, inviting passersby at Navy Pier to interact with the facade, heightening the theatrical experience for visitors. The theatrical nature of the facade is akin to the raising of the curtain, as it will be primarily tinted throughout the day becoming clearer in the evenings as the sun sets and the performances begin.
Another innovation is the theater's flexible egress system that allows seating towers to be configured into nine different arrangements, adjusting the range of seating capacity from 250 to over 850 seats. The mobility of the seating towers is achieved through the incorporation of air casters at the base of each structure.
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