An extensive refurbishment and extension of the prestigious Grand Opera House in Belfast – completed at the end of 2006 – incorporated a raft of products from MK Electric and Ackermann as the theatre’s electrical systems and accessories were upgraded. The Grand Opera House first opened its doors in December 1895, and has provided an important cultural and entertainment focus to the city of Belfast ever since.
Initially, the venue was used for a broad variety of events such as opera, drama, pantomime and the latest theatrical comedy or musical. By the 1920's and 1930's, variety programmes dominated the programme presented by the Grand Opera House. In WWII it was a repertory theatre and, in the 1950s as entertainment tastes changed, became increasingly used as a cinema. After two decades of decline, the Opera house was listed and restored – with the recent refurbishment implemented to maintain the high standard of the facilities.
MK’s stylish Aspect range of wiring devices was installed throughout the building. Their slim profile and flawless frontplates ensure that they always look special – and their high quality materials contribute to their superb functionality, reliability and safety.
Improved backstage facilities saw the incorporation of over 1000 MK Electric Shockguard baton holders into dressing room areas. Shockguard provides the ultimate in safety lampholders: when the lamp is removed it automatically shields the contact by means of a specially designed shutter and it remains that way until a lamp is replaced. This means that with no bulb in place there is no danger of electrocution from exposed contacts, as the contact pins are totally isolated.
In the main public areas, Ackermann Onix floorboxes were installed throughout. Onix floorboxes and Power Grommets are an innovative solution to hard floor power and data distribution requirements. Stylish and robust, they provide power and data services in screed floors with coverings such as timber, stone and marble. Used with Ackermann’s Screed Ducting system, these products can be used in a wide range of applications including reception areas, offices, airports, shopping malls and exhibition halls.
Today, the Grand Opera House continues to present a programme of the very best in live theatrical performances and entertainment to satisfy the widest possible range and of tastes and ages; and plays hosts to companies from around the world and those from Ireland and Great Britain.