Lucknow: Bhartendu Natya Akademi now has auditoriums and classrooms equipped with advanced technology and upgraded infrastructure aimed at strengthening its role as a centre for theatre education and performance. The academy has undergone major renovation with a budget of Rs 22 crore. The Akademi’s two auditoriums —Thrust and BM Shah—now have advanced light and sound systems to support contemporary stage productions. The new setup is expected to improve acoustics, stage visibility and technical control during performances.Seating capacity of Thrust is 152 while BM Shah auditorium can seat 137. Both auditoriums have been refurbished with new carpets and floor lighting to improve the viewing experience.Stage areas have been redesigned to accommodate modern theatre equipment, including Dolby Atmos and advanced speakers. For actors, two green rooms are attached with both auditoriums. As part of the upgrade, a cafeteria has been constructed adjacent to the two auditoriums. New water coolers and a lift have been installed, while a parking area with capacity for at least 150 vehicles has been developed on the campus.The academy’s classrooms have also been modernised. Several classrooms are now air-conditioned and fitted with video projectors to support lectures, workshops and multimedia presentations. Faculty members said new facilities would help students access recorded performances, stage design references and other learning material during classes.A new rehearsal room has been created for students, featuring an improved sound system and mirrors on all sides.BNA chairman Rati Shankar Tripathi said, “We are also renovating the theatre on the terrace of the institution building to give an open theatre experience to the audience. The construction work is going to be completed by the end of this month.”
