Quarry No. 9: Stage Space + Quarry No. 10: Live Performance / DnA

Architects: DnA
Area: 1000 m²
Year: 2022
Photographs: Ziling Wang, Xiandu Scenic Area
Lead Architect: Tiantian Xu
Lighting Design: X Studio Architecture Department of Tsinghua University
Structural Strengthening Consultant: The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co.Ltd
Construction: Jinhong Construction Co. Ltd, Zhejiang Tunnel Engineering Group Co.LTD
Sustainable Engineering: Bolong Lin ( Key Laboratory of Eco Planning & Green Building (Tsinghua University), Ministry of Education)
Acoustic Design: Xiang Yan (Tsinghua University Acoustic Lab)
Client: Jinyun County Culture Tourism Development Investment Co. LTD
Safety Consultant: South Zhejiang Comprehensive Engineering Institute Co. Ltd of Investigation and Mapping
City: Lishui
Country: China

Quarry No. 9: Stage Space, a unique performance venue, is skillfully carved into the rock, offering a space that is both architecturally intriguing and acoustically optimized. Located in a region known for its traditional Wuju opera, this quarry has been technically enhanced to support various cultural events. The strategic use of artificial lighting and sound-absorbing materials enhances the natural acoustic properties and the visual appeal of the space. This adaptation allows it to serve multiple functions, from lectures to live performances.

Quarry no. 9: stage space + quarry no. 10: live performance / dna

Quarry No. 9: Stage Space. Quarry No. 9 is seamlessly integrated into the rock, beginning with a narrow entry that expands into an approximately rectangular space, narrowing upwards into a high, roof-like shape with a slim opening that allows daylight to enter. This quarry exemplifies the top-down mining technique. However, in this case, the lower section, shaped by machinery, is distinctly visible and contrasts with the manually sculpted upper portion. The lower region features vertical walls due to machine use, while the upper part’s conical shape results from handcrafting. The space, reminiscent of a cathedral and partially enclosed at the back, boasts exceptional acoustics, which, although accidental, were enhanced with specialized flooring and panels in the side railings for sound absorption, allowing for its multifunctional use.

The space’s unique conditions and technical enhancements deem it ideal for hosting lectures, performances, or traditional Wuju opera, prevalent only in this locale. The opera resonates with residents and tourists. Thoughtfully arranged artificial lighting fosters a celebratory ambiance that accentuates the spatial characteristics and highlights the expansive, fissured wall surfaces. Rainfall gathers on the slightly depressed interior floor, mirroring the environment, and light variations cause undulating reflections on the walls, adding a visual and auditory layer to the space with the sound of dripping water.

Quarry No. 10: Live Performance is positioned on the western side of the access road, Quarry No. 10 marks the beginning of a pathway connecting to other sites. Nestled in a forest, this quarry features an open, almost rectangular space that is exposed to the sky, formed by stone excavation. By early afternoon, this three-sided area is flooded with sunlight. Live demonstrations by local stonemasons show the traditional craft that once dominated the region but has since ceased.

Overgrowth at the quarry’s upper edges was cleared to prevent material falls, ensuring safety across all sites. A ramp from the access path leads to a viewing platform, elevated by nearly three meters, from here a circular spectator stand descends into the quarry. Spectators can observe performances or enjoy panoramic views of the landscape from the elevated platform. Beneath the platform lies a small room designated for workers’ tools. The spectator area, constructed with local stone, is bisected by a central staircase leading to the platform, and a path continues to Quarry No. 9 located 80 meters north.