The Wyly’s Transformative Power

Aptly called a “magician’s box of tricks” by the New York Times, the new Wyly Theatre offers Dallas much more than an eye-catching piece of contemporary architecture. Nicolai Ouroussoff of the Times describes,

The proscenium wall, like the scenery, can be raised and lowered electronically. Stage floors can drop away and reappear. Several tiers of balconies can be mechanically rearranged in any number of configurations, surrounding the stage on three sides one night, drawing together in a more traditional arrangement the next.

The purpose of all this engineering is not just to facilitate quick set changes; it also allows the director to manipulate and fine-tune the relationship between actors and audience. If the machinery is used as intended, patrons will find that the emotional distance between them and the actors will change in unexpected ways with each performance.

Cleverly constructed to both fascinate and fluster, the impressive structure is wily indeed.

Not yet convinced? Watch this video:

Brought to you by the Dallas Observer.

Tags: Dallas Arts District, Wyly Theatre