Republic of the Philippines

Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus

Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

Midterm Requirement in
Building Utilities 3 – Acoustics and Lighting Systems
Second Semester AY 2023 – 2024

ACOUSTICAL ANALYSIS

Prepared by:

Stellina Rose M. Quimat

BSAR 3C

Submitted to:

Ar. AYESHA AMIE G. DE LEON, uap, afa

Subject Instructor
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Project Title:
Acoustic Analysis of Iconic Entertainment Venues in the Philippines

Venue Selection:
The Newport Performing Arts Theater

Historical Context:
 The Newport Performing Arts Theater is a renowned venue located in Resorts World Manila,
Philippines. Designed by the award-winning architect Leandro Locsin, it is known for its striking
architectural design characterized by its modernist aesthetic and state-of-the-art facilities. The theater's
construction began in 2007 and was completed in 2010, making it a relatively recent addition to
Manila's cultural landscape.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 Historically, the Newport Performing Arts Theater has played a significant role in the Filipino
entertainment scene, providing a platform for various performances ranging from musicals and
concerts to theatrical productions. Its location within Resorts World Manila, a major entertainment
complex, has contributed to its prominence as a premier venue for both local and international artists.

 The theater's architectural significance lies in its innovative design, featuring a spacious auditorium with
excellent acoustics and seating capacity for over 1,500 spectators. Its modern amenities and technical
capabilities make it an ideal venue for a wide range of performances, attracting audiences from diverse
backgrounds.
 In the Filipino entertainment landscape, the Newport Performing Arts Theater stands as a symbol of the
country's growing cultural prominence and commitment to fostering the arts. Its presence has helped
elevate Manila as a hub for live entertainment, offering world-class productions and showcasing the
talent of Filipino artists to both local and global audiences. In 1978, the building was restored again.
However, the theater was still abandoned. In 2010, the National Commission for Culture and Arts and
the Manila city administration developed a project on the theater revival. The restoration works were
done once again. This time a grand opening of the Manila Metropolitan Theater was held.

Architectural Features:

The architectural design of the Newport Performing Arts Theater is carefully crafted to enhance both the
visual and auditory experience of its patrons. Here's an overview of its key features:

 Seating Arrangement: The theater typically features a tiered seating arrangement, ensuring good
sightlines from every seat in the house. This design allows for optimal viewing angles and minimizes
obstruction, contributing to a more immersive experience for the audience.

 Stage Configuration: The stage is strategically positioned to serve as the focal point of the theater, with
adequate space for performers and props. Its size and layout are designed to accommodate various
types of productions, from intimate plays to large-scale musicals or concerts.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 Ceiling Height: The ceiling of the theater is often designed with acoustics in mind. It may feature sound-
absorbing materials or be shaped to optimize sound distribution throughout the space. A higher ceiling
can also help prevent sound reflections that could distort the clarity of the audio.

 Overall Geometry: The overall geometry of the theater, including the shape and dimensions of the
auditorium, is crucial for controlling sound reflections and optimizing acoustics. Curved walls, sloped
floors, and strategically placed acoustic panels may be incorporated into the design to minimize

reverberation and ensure balanced sound distribution.

These features work together to create an environment that maximizes the clarity, richness, and balance of
sound within the theater. By carefully considering the architectural design and spatial layout, the Newport
Performing Arts Theater aims to provide audiences with an immersive and acoustically pleasing
experience, whether they are enjoying a theatrical performance, concert, or other live event.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Materials Analysis:

The materials used in the construction of the Newport Performing Arts Theater are selected with careful
consideration of their acoustic properties to ensure optimal sound quality and control within the venue. Here
are some common materials used in various aspects of the theater and their contributions to sound:

 Building Envelope:
o Exterior Walls: Thick concrete or brick walls are often used to provide insulation against
external noise and vibrations.
o Interior Walls: Acoustic insulation materials such as fiberglass or mineral wool may be
installed within interior walls to absorb sound and reduce transmission between spaces.
o Windows: Double or triple-pane windows with acoustic laminated glass help to minimize
sound transmission from outside while still allowing natural light into the theater.

 Interior Finishes:
o Wall Coverings: Fabric-covered acoustic panels are commonly used on walls to absorb
sound reflections and improve clarity within the theater.
o Ceiling: Acoustic ceiling tiles or panels are installed to absorb sound reflections from the
ceiling, preventing excessive reverberation.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

o Flooring: Carpeting or specialized flooring materials with sound-absorbing properties are

used to reduce impact noise and footsteps within the auditorium.

 Seating:
o Seat Cushions: Upholstered seat cushions provide some degree of absorption for mid to
high-frequency sounds, reducing reverberation within the seating area.
o Seat Backs: High-back seats may help to partially block sound transmission between rows,
improving the acoustic separation for audience members.

 Stage Elements:
o Stage Flooring: Wooden or sprung floors are often used on the stage to enhance
resonance and amplify sound from performers, especially in musical productions.
o Acoustic Shell: A specialized acoustic shell or canopy above the stage helps to reflect
sound towards the audience, improving projection and clarity for performers' voices and
instruments.

 Overall, the careful selection and placement of these materials contribute to sound absorption,
reflection, diffusion, and insulation within the Newport Performing Arts Theater. By control

Spatial Planning:

The spatial planning strategies employed in the Newport Performing Arts Theater are meticulously
designed to optimize sound propagation and enhance the audience experience. Here's how various
elements contribute to achieving these goals:

 Sightlines: The theater utilizes tiered seating arrangements and carefully calculated seat angles to
ensure unobstructed sightlines from every seat in the house. This design allows audience
members to have clear views of the stage, facilitating engagement with the performance and
minimizing distractions. By providing excellent sightlines, the theater enhances the overall
audience experience and allows patrons to fully appreciate the visual aspects of the performance,
which can contribute to their perception of sound quality.

 Seating Arrangements: The seating layout is strategically planned to maximize the intimacy and
engagement between performers and audience members. The proximity of seats to the stage is
optimized to create an immersive experience, allowing spectators to feel connected to the
performers and their artistry. Additionally, the spacing and arrangement of seats are designed to
promote comfort and accessibility, ensuring that patrons can enjoy the performance without feeling
cramped or uncomfortable. By creating a conducive environment for audience engagement, the
seating arrangements contribute to the overall acoustical performance of the theater.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 Stage Positioning: The position and orientation of the stage are carefully considered to optimize
sound projection and clarity. The stage is typically positioned at the focal point of the theater,
allowing sound to propagate evenly throughout the auditorium. Additionally, the stage may be
elevated or equipped with specialized acoustical features, such as reflective surfaces or acoustic
shells, to enhance sound diffusion and projection towards the audience. By positioning the stage
strategically, the theater maximizes the acoustical performance of the venue, ensuring that sound
reaches every corner of the auditorium with clarity and presence.

 Overall, the spatial planning strategies employed in the Newport Performing Arts Theater are
aimed at creating an immersive and engaging experience for audience members while optimizing
sound propagation and clarity. By carefully considering sightlines, seating arrangements, and stage
positioning, the theater enhances the acoustical performance of the venue, allowing patrons to fully
appreciate the auditory aspects of the performance

Acoustic Treatment

The Newport Performing Arts Theater incorporates various acoustic treatments throughout the venue to
mitigate acoustic issues such as reverberation, standing waves, and echoes. Here's how these treatments
work:

 Wall Panels: The presence of wall panels, typically made of sound-absorbing materials such as
fiberglass or acoustic foam, helps to reduce sound reflections off the walls. By absorbing sound
energy, these panels minimize reverberation within the auditorium, allowing for clearer and more
intelligible sound. Additionally, strategically placed wall panels can help break up standing waves,
which are patterns of resonance that can distort sound quality.

 Ceiling Baffles: Acoustic baffles suspended from the ceiling serve a similar purpose to wall panels
by absorbing sound reflections from the ceiling. These baffles are often positioned strategically to
target areas where sound reflections are most prominent, helping to further reduce reverberation
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

and improve acoustics throughout the venue. Additionally, ceiling baffles can help mitigate echoes
by preventing sound from bouncing back and forth between the floor and ceiling surfaces.

 Sound-Absorbing Curtains: Sound-absorbing curtains or drapes may be used to cover large

openings such as stage wings or backstage areas. These curtains help to absorb sound energy
and prevent it from reflecting back into the auditorium, reducing the overall level of reverberation.
Additionally, they can help to improve sound isolation between different areas of the theater,
minimizing distractions for performers and audience members alike.

 Overall, the presence of acoustic treatments such as wall panels, ceiling baffles, and sound-
absorbing curtains within the Newport Performing Arts Theater plays a crucial role in mitigating
acoustic issues and optimizing sound quality. By reducing reverberation, standing waves, and
echoes, these treatments create a more balanced and immersive auditory experience for both
performers and audience members, enhancing the overall enjoyment of live performances in the
venue.

Historical Performances:

The Newport Performing Arts Theater has hosted a diverse range of performances and events, each with
its unique acoustical requirements and impact on the venue. Here are some notable examples and their
acoustical considerations:

 Orchestral Concerts: The theater has accommodated orchestral concerts featuring symphony
orchestras and chamber ensembles. For such performances, the venue's acoustics play a critical
role in conveying the richness and clarity of the music. The design of the theater, including its
ceiling height, wall treatments, and seating arrangement, contributes to creating an optimal
acoustic environment for orchestral performances. Additionally, the stage may be equipped with
acoustical shells or canopies to enhance sound projection and balance.

 Theatrical Productions: The theater has also been the stage for various theatrical productions,
including musicals, plays, and dance performances. For these productions, the venue's acoustics
must support both spoken dialogue and musical numbers. Acoustic treatments such as wall panels
and sound-absorbing curtains help to minimize reverberation and ensure clear and intelligible
sound for both actors and musicians. Additionally, the stage design and positioning are tailored to
accommodate the specific staging requirements of each production while maintaining optimal
acoustics.

 Concerts and Live Performances: The Newport Performing Arts Theater has welcomed a wide
range of live performances, including pop concerts, jazz shows, and contemporary music events.
The venue's flexible acoustics allow it to adapt to different genres and styles of music, ensuring
that each performance is presented with clarity and impact. Sound reinforcement systems may be
employed to amplify performers' voices and instruments, while still preserving the natural acoustics
of the space.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 Overall, the Newport Performing Arts Theater's acoustical design and flexibility have enabled it to
accommodate a diverse range of performances, from orchestral concerts to theatrical productions
and live events. By providing a versatile and acoustically optimized environment, the venue
ensures that each performance can be enjoyed to its fullest potential by both performers and
audience members alike.

“Musiko: Timeless Pinoy Bands”

Two of the most notable bands in the Philippines, 6cyclemind and Mayonnaise have proven why they
continue to be one of the timeless OPM bands of today as they successfully held “Musiko: Timeless Pinoy
Bands” a back-to-back concert at the Newport Performing Arts Theater last March 10, 2023. The Musiko:
Timeless Pinoy Band is a concert series pairing up some of the country’s well-loved bands in one stage for
an epic show, 6cyclemind and Mayonnaise being the fifth back-to-back pair up.

Recommendations for Improvement:

Based on the analysis of the Newport Performing Arts Theater's acoustical performance and its hosting
of diverse events, here are some recommendations for potential improvements or modifications to
further enhance the venue's acoustics:

 Retrofitting with Advanced Acoustic Materials: Consider retrofitting the theater with advanced
acoustic materials such as acoustic panels, diffusers, and bass traps. These materials can be
strategically placed to further optimize sound absorption, diffusion, and control reverberation
within the space.

 Adjustable Acoustic Elements: Install adjustable acoustic elements such as retractable curtains
or movable acoustic panels. This would allow for greater flexibility in tailoring the acoustics of
the venue to suit the specific requirements of different performances, from orchestral concerts
to theatrical productions.
 Republic of the Philippines
Don Honorio Ventura State University - Candaba Campus
Pasig, Candaba Pampanga, 2013
DCC@dhvsu.edu.ph
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 Stage Enhancements: Invest in stage enhancements such as variable acoustics systems or

modular stage designs. These enhancements would enable performers to adjust the acoustics of
the stage area to optimize sound projection and balance for different types of performances.

 Sound Reinforcement System Upgrades: Upgrade the venue's sound reinforcement system with
state-of-the-art equipment to ensure clear and balanced sound reproduction, especially for
larger-scale events and concerts. This may include investing in high-quality microphones,
speakers, amplifiers, and digital signal processing technology.

 Acoustic Consultation and Testing: Conduct thorough acoustic consultation and testing to
identify specific areas for improvement within the venue. This may involve working with
acoustical engineers and consultants to analyze the existing acoustic conditions and recommend
targeted solutions for enhancement.

 Audience Comfort: Consider enhancing audience comfort by improving seating ergonomics and
sightline angles while maintaining acoustical performance. Comfortable seating encourages
patrons to fully engage with performances without distractions, contributing to overall audience
satisfaction.

 Sustainable Design Practices: Incorporate sustainable design practices into any modifications or
upgrades to the venue. This could include using eco-friendly acoustic materials, energy-efficient
lighting, and HVAC systems, which not only benefit the environment but also contribute to a
healthier and more sustainable performance space.

By implementing these recommendations, the Newport Performing Arts Theater can further enhance its
acoustical performance, providing an exceptional experience for performers and audience members
across a wide range of events and performances