Jian Li Ju Theatre: A Cinematic Architectural Masterpiece

Embracing Film Noir Aesthetics in a Unique Theatre Design

The Jian Li Ju Theatre, nestled in the heart of Shanghai, is a testament to the innovative approach of its designer, Kelsy Alexander. Drawing inspiration from the architectural theory of Tschumi's 1976 Screenplays project, the theatre's design employs strategies such as distortion, repetition, and superimposition, often used by the great directors of the Film Noir scene. This approach has resulted in an interior that is soaked with the atmosphere of a 50's Hollywood melodrama, offering a unique experiential narrative at a time when consumers are increasingly interested in experiences over material objects.

The theatre's unique properties lie in its careful architectural approach to the relationships between space, event, and movement. The design creates a sequence of contrasting spaces that read as a montage of screenshots from a film reel, offering unique spectator experiences where the audience plays an integral role in their performances and productions. The design team took a conceptual approach to the development of the design, working with drawings, sketches, and collage to create the initial atmospheric intent for the space. The spatial form was then tested in a 3D model and developed with the client's knowledge on theatre production.

The Jian Li Ju Theatre is not just a space for performances; it is an interactive theatre that engages its audience in an entirely new way. The functions required are organized into a linear arrangement of spaces, and a lighting strategy was devised to guide visitors through the sequence of spaces with no oral supervision needed. This strategy heightens the sense of drama and expectation, transforming the audience from mere spectators to active participants in the theatre's productions.

The design of the theatre was realized under tight time constraints, with the concept stage beginning in October 2016, construction starting in December 2016, and the theatre opening its doors in February 2017. Despite these constraints, the design team managed to create a space that challenges traditional audience experiences, questioning the engagement with cinema and turning the approach to character, acting, and performance upside down. The result is a theatre that offers a unique, immersive experience, where the audience is not just watching a performance, but is part of it.

The Jian Li Ju Theatre is a testament to the power of innovative design and the potential of architecture to create unique, immersive experiences. Its design has been recognized with the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018, a prestigious accolade granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. This award is a testament to the theatre's extraordinary excellence and its significant impact on the world of architecture and design.