Project

Founded in 1938, Olney Theatre is one of Maryland’s two official state theaters and a cornerstone of the region’s performing arts scene. Known for its diverse programming – from Broadway classics to world premieres – Olney has long been a creative hub for both local and nationally recognized talent. In late 2024, the theater underwent a significant stage systems upgrade. With most of its performance spaces previously outfitted by another provider, this project gave Sightline Commercial Solutions an opportunity to showcase its design expertise and execution capabilities. Sightline was brought in to supply a range of advanced, custom-fabricated staging components, including four SC90 riser sections, a full stage trap system and IBC-compliant railings and sockets. A tailored mix of 3x3, 3x6 and custom platform sizes was used to build seating rows that extend upstage/downstage as well as Stage Right/Stage Left, all while keeping the platforms in place to maintain maximum flexibility. For the trap area, the Sightline team used 3D laser scanning to ensure a precise fit within the theater’s existing infrastructure. The scan revealed that the pit was smaller than shown on the architectural drawings – off-square by one inch. By identifying this issue early, Sightline was able to collaborate with the general contractor and owner to develop a field-cut solution that accommodated the actual site dimensions without delaying the project schedule or increasing costs. An additional challenge involved the number of legs required to meet the various height configurations across the trap system: originally 877 in total. By implementing the adjustable SC90 Leg, Sightline reduced that number by nearly half, streamlining installation and improving the long-term flexibility of the system. Sightline partnered closely with Whiting Turner and Theatre Projects to deliver a performance-ready system that enhances safety, functionality and ease of use for future productions. The completed project reflects the power of custom-fabricated solutions and effective collaboration in the performance space while also reinforcing Olney Theatre’s legacy as a dynamic space for artistic innovation. Images provided by Sarah Straub, Associate Director of Marketing at Olney Theatre Center

Founded in 1938, Olney Theatre is one of Maryland’s two official state theaters and a cornerstone of the region’s performing arts scene. Known for its diverse programming – from Broadway classics to world premieres – Olney has long been a creative hub for both local and nationally recognized talent. In late 2024, the theater underwent a significant stage systems upgrade. With most of its performance spaces previously outfitted by another provider, this project gave Sightline Commercial Solutions an opportunity to showcase its design expertise and execution capabilities. Sightline was brought in to supply a range of advanced, custom-fabricated staging components, including four SC90 riser sections, a full stage trap system and IBC-compliant railings and sockets. A tailored mix of 3x3, 3x6 and custom platform sizes was used to build seating rows that extend upstage/downstage as well as Stage Right/Stage Left, all while keeping the platforms in place to maintain maximum flexibility. For the trap area, the Sightline team used 3D laser scanning to ensure a precise fit within the theater’s existing infrastructure. The scan revealed that the pit was smaller than shown on the architectural drawings – off-square by one inch. By identifying this issue early, Sightline was able to collaborate with the general contractor and owner to develop a field-cut solution that accommodated the actual site dimensions without delaying the project schedule or increasing costs. An additional challenge involved the number of legs required to meet the various height configurations across the trap system: originally 877 in total. By implementing the adjustable SC90 Leg, Sightline reduced that number by nearly half, streamlining installation and improving the long-term flexibility of the system. Sightline partnered closely with Whiting Turner and Theatre Projects to deliver a performance-ready system that enhances safety, functionality and ease of use for future productions. The completed project reflects the power of custom-fabricated solutions and effective collaboration in the performance space while also reinforcing Olney Theatre’s legacy as a dynamic space for artistic innovation. Images provided by Sarah Straub, Associate Director of Marketing at Olney Theatre Center