Lighting design solution for the Kamal Theatre

The Kamal Theatre is the oldest national theatre in Russia. The first public performance in the Tatar language was performed in 1906. The new building of the Kamal Theatre will continue the tradition of the national theatre. At the same time, its capabilities will not be limited to theatrical functions. It is a multifunctional cultural center and public space accessible to residents and guests of the city not only during performances.

Lighting design solutions for the theater interior can be divided into public spaces for spectators and closed areas where the staff works. In each of them it was necessary to create optimal lighting conditions that meet functional tasks and design solutions.

The decorative design of the public interiors of the theatre is based on an ancient legend about the treasures of Lake Kaban. This image is consistent with the general concept of the theatre’s architecture with an "ice" roof, wavy ceiling and wall volumes reminiscent of the vessels in which, according to legend, treasures were kept.

The walls of the theatre are decorated with patterns inspired by traditional Tatar women's jewellery. The project includes 16 petal walls up to 11.4 m high. Different shades of metal, "silver" and "gold" trim in the petals' decor, their iridescent reflection and multi-layered design give the walls lightness and delicacy. During the day, the petals are illuminated by natural light, changing them according to the time of day and the lighting conditions on the street, and in the dark they are revived by artificial lighting. The contrast lighting of the patterns not only creates an additional focus on the elements and complements the volume, but also plays a prominent role in shaping the overall illumination of the space.