Near the city of Yixing, known as the ceramics capital of China, the Earth Valley Theatre, designed by the GOA (Group of Architects) studio, has been built. The 9,200-square-metre structure serves as an open-air amphitheatre, where performances take place amidst freely flying birds. The architects made use of the natural topography, minimising interference with the landscape and creating a space that fosters coexistence between people and animals.
A valley transformed into the Earth Valley Theatre
The design utilises a natural valley with a ‘T’-shaped layout, where a narrow corridor cuts across a larger valley. The entrance leads through three plazas and three cuboid pavilions arranged in a geometric composition. From there, visitors descend to the amphitheatre via paths running alongside the water or up the valley slopes. The 2,300-seat auditorium is partially sunk into the ground, thereby preserving the natural landscape of the site. The angle of the stands has been adapted to the flight paths of birds, which can glide freely just above the audience whilst maintaining a safe distance.
A design tailored to the birds’ needs
The concept was developed in collaboration with architects, show producers and bird conservation specialists from Puy du Fou in France. Flicker-free LED lighting has been installed in the aviaries to mimic dawn and dusk, along with automatic doors and ‘Sputnik’-type boxes to facilitate the animals’ independent departures and returns. Equally close attention was paid to the acoustics. Directional line-array speaker systems focus the sound exclusively on the audience. The noise therefore does not disturb the birds’ nesting sites or their daily activities.
Earth Valley Theatre: ceramics and modern materials
The materials used in the construction draw on local ceramic traditions. The plinths and performance areas are made of CNC-moulded concrete, finished by hand. The surface, meanwhile, is coated with a finish imitating rammed earth. The rough texture resembles raw ceramics and reduces the risk of slipping. The bird areas consist of a lightweight steel structure covered with woven high-density polyethylene (HDPE) elements. The material resembles traditional bamboo products, whilst also withstanding weather conditions well, reducing glare and improving ventilation.
Sustainable technology hidden underground
Earth Valley Theatre meets the requirements for at least a two-star rating under the Chinese Green Building Evaluation Standard. The soil excavated during construction was used to shape the surrounding hills. The technical facilities are concealed beneath the auditorium terraces, whilst green roofs improve thermal insulation. The project was designed using BIM technology. A concealed drainage system directs water to existing flood control channels and the site’s irrigation system. Lighting, sound systems and multimedia equipment have been concealed within concrete elements – the landscape is the main focus of the entire design.
Design: GOA
Photographs: CHEN Xi Studio
Location: Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
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