There’s a new bag policy in effect for The Dominion Energy Center and Altria Theater, as well as $2.5 million in upgrades to audio and lighting systems, ticketing and entry.
The Carpenter Theatre now has a new, top-of-the-line sound system scaled for the size of the 1,800-seat venue, as well as a new mixing console. It also has a new lighting console to allow technicians more creative control.
“The new audio and lighting systems at Carpenter Theatre are more representative of today’s concerts and production needs. Performance technology has come a long way in recent years, and we are so excited to be able to offer promoters and artists the newest and the best,” Steve Sweet, a spokesperson for Legends Global, operator of the theaters, said.
Previously, the theaters were operated by ASM Global. Last year, Legends, a services provider for sports venues, events and brands founded by the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, acquired ASM Global. Now, the merged company is called Legends Global.
The old PA system from Carpenter Theatre has been donated to Gallery5.
Dominion Energy Center’s elevators also underwent renovations and are now fully modernized.
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Both the Carpenter Theatre and Altria Theater will now be using frictionless security detectors, similar to the technology at Chesterfield County Schools, to speed up entry and increase safety.
“The scanners read mobile phone tickets, preprinted tickets from our print at home options or printed tickets from our box office. Once scanned, a green light appears, allowing entry,” Trent Gray, a spokesperson for Legends Global, added.
These upgrades have been roughly four years in the works.
Both venues have also implemented a new bag policy as follows:
Bags larger than 12 inches x 8 inches x 6 inches will not be permitted.
Backpacks, boxes, laptop bags and briefcases will not be permitted.
Diaper bags and medical bags are exempt from policy and subject to search upon entry.
Dominion Energy Center hosts over 100 performances annually and is home to Richmond Performing Arts Alliance and resident companies, including Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Ballet, Virginia Opera and other performing arts organizations, such as Cadence and Richmond Shakespeare Theatre Company.
“This endeavor reflects our commitment to Richmond’s arts community, our resident companies and especially our patrons, with the goal of providing a pleasant, safe and convenient experience,” Chris Dudeck, general manager of Dominion Energy Center for Legends Global, stated. “These innovative and technical upgrades to the venue will both enrich the quality of performance and attract top artists, encouraging a Richmond stop on national tours.”