MPASD’s new Black Box theatre is a fully modular space with a maximum capacity for 200 seats.  Built in 2020, the space features all LED, color changing fixtures and console from Electronic Theatre Controls, seating from Stage Right which allows for multiple arrangements, a JBL sound system, extensive acoustical treatments, and a Christie projector with a drop down screen. It also has a track hanging on 3 sides with black out curtains and a large cyclorama to cover one wall.

Lighting and sound are both run from the control booth on the second floor catwalk, with floor to ceiling windows for the crew to see the whole production.

The theatre features a fully walkable, wire tension grid to access all of the light instruments and speakers, creating a much safer environment for staff and students to access and move the equipment into any possible configuration.

Backstage, the Black box theatre has loading access though the scene shop as well as two small dressing rooms and a dedicated restroom for performers, with full video and audio monitoring in those spaces.

In addition to hosting many of MHS’s theatrical productions, the Black Box Theatre will be utilized in many different ways by the high school, the district, and the community at large.  Lectures, meetings, movies, concerts, and dance events will all find a home in the Black Box Theatre.