PureTek Group successfully completed a comprehensive theater upgrade at JFK High School in Paterson, NJ. The project addressed safety concerns by repairing and replacing the existing rigging system, installing flame-resistant drapery. Upgrades included a new dimming infrastructure, LED stage lighting fixtures, improved house lighting, emergency backup, and RGBW LED downlights. With programming, training, and maintenance services, PureTek Group transformed the theater into a safer, functional, and visually captivating space, enhancing the performing arts experience for students and the community.

LOCATION
Paterson, NJ

DATE
Winter ’23

CATEGORY
Stage

PARTNERS
Northeast Stage

 

Project Photos

Project Solutions

Challenges

1) The existing rigging system contained several code violations and safety concerns which had been exacerbated by continual ware and tear.  

2) Previous house lighting provided insufficient and uneven illumination, and thereby dramatically reduced opportunities for auditorium usage.

3) Old theatrical lighting system relied on outdated technology that limited student performance quality and rental opportunities

 

The Solution:

PureTek Group completed a comprehensive theater upgrade at JFK High School in Paterson, NJ, improving safety, functionality, and aesthetics. The project involved repairing and replacing non-code compliant stage rigging, as well as installing flame-resistant theater drapery and curtains. A new theatrical stage dimming infrastructure system was furnished, featuring intuitive controls, a professional lighting console, and enhanced power distribution and networking capabilities. The upgrade also included new LED stage lighting fixtures for a uniform stage wash and compliance with production standards. Additionally, house lighting and backstage work lighting were installed, with a 90-minute emergency backup system for automatic restoration during power failures. RGBW LED recessed downlights were added for dynamic event lighting.  PureTek Group handled programming, commissioning, training, and maintenance for the entire system. 
The theater upgrade by PureTek Group at JFK High School has transformed the space into a safer, more efficient, and visually captivating venue, enhancing the performing arts experience for students and the community.

Tech Spotlight

Full Color House Lighting

This project features (9) Cameo H2 FC Full-Color RGBW LED DMX-Controllable House Lights in the house above the stage apron to provide full-color event lighting in the auditorium’s orchestra pit.  The lighting is controllable from the lighting console, backstage touch panel, and entry stations to allow for full control from dazzling animated scenes to simple presets for events like lectures and assemblies. 

Adding full color functionality into house lighting visually expands the performance beyond the stage into an experience that blurs the line of where attendees are simply spectators and where they are immersed in the performance.  It is a simple way to future-ready an auditorium and radically expand its functionality. 

5-Day Student Seminar

Students at JFK High School received practical hands-on theater technology education from industry professionals as part of PureTek’s 5-day student seminar.  Topics ranged from general lighting design theory and lighting design operation to stage safety and refocusing fixtures.  Students were presented certificates of completion to get them legs up on collegiate and professional opportunities.

Full Color House Lighting

This project features (9) Cameo H2 FC Full-Color RGBW LED DMX-Controllable House Lights in the house above the stage apron to provide full-color event lighting in the auditorium’s orchestra pit.  The lighting is controllable from the lighting console, backstage touch panel, and entry stations to allow for full control from dazzling animated scenes to simple presets for events like lectures and assemblies. 

Adding full color functionality into house lighting visually expands the performance beyond the stage into an experience that blurs the line of where attendees are simply spectators and where they are immersed in the performance.  It is a simple way to future-ready an auditorium and radically expand its functionality. 

5-Day Student Seminar

Students at JFK High School received practical hands-on theater technology education from industry professionals as part of PureTek’s 5-day student seminar.  Topics ranged from general lighting design theory and lighting design operation to stage safety and refocusing fixtures.  Students were presented certificates of completion to get them legs up on collegiate and professional opportunities.

Downloadable Project Review