Renovating a performance venue is never easy, but renovating one while it’s actively hosting shows takes the challenge to a whole new level. That was the case at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where APX Construction Group was tasked with installing six new spiral lift systems beneath the orchestra stage.
The timing couldn’t have been more unique. During the project, the Pavilion was running its production of the Addams Family, meaning the orchestra floor had to continue functioning each night. The stage needed to be raised and lowered for performances, then returned to position so construction could resume the next morning.
This wasn’t a typical construction job. The orchestra show floor carries up to 90,000 lbs live load capacity and weighs 14,000 lbs at dead weight. The orchestra pit itself stretched 14 feet from the bottom to the underside of the stage beams, with limited headroom and tight access.
Installing six new spiral lift systems in this confined space required precision, strength, and the ability to keep the stage operational throughout. Traditional jacking methods that APX had used in the past weren’t going to cut it.
The Cube Jacks being loaded onsite to raise and lower the stage as needed.
Project Manager Dylan VanderGarde explained that they initially considered standard lift jacks for the job. Though he quickly realized they didn’t offer the safety or control needed for such a complex and active environment. That’s when a new option was introduced: Enerpac’s Hydraulic Self-Locking Cube Jacks.
The 110-ton Cube Jacks stood out immediately. Unlike traditional systems, Cube Jacks could both lock and move simultaneously. This gave the APX crew confidence that they could lift and hold the stage safely while still allowing for adjustments as needed.
The cube jacks raising the Pavilion’s stage.
Six Cube Jacks were suspended beneath two beams with 8-inch flanges, supporting the orchestra floor during the installation of the spiral lift systems. Additional support came from shoring towers, roughly 8 feet tall, while a hydraulic lift in the pit provided maneuverability around the towers during rigging.
According to Dylan, this system was unlike anything his team had worked with before: the Cube Jacks provided stability and precision that other jacks simply couldn’t match.
Although APX Construction Group had never partnered with LGH before, their first experience quickly made an impression. Dan Meinecke, one of LGH’s trusted Rental Representatives, guided APX through the process from the very beginning. He coordinated equipment delivery, ensured the system was set up correctly, and was available throughout the project to answer questions. “Other companies don’t send guys out to site,” Dylan said. “No one else is this involved.”
Beyond setup, Dan stayed closely involved to keep everything running smoothly. He checked in regularly, made sure the crew had what they needed, and resolved issues quickly so the project never lost momentum. Dylan emphasized how seamless Dan made the process, from scheduling and pickups to everyday problem solving.
Despite the complexity of working in a live performance venue, the Cube Jack system allowed APX to complete the installation ahead of schedule. The project also stayed under budget. More importantly, the Addams Family carried on without interruption. The orchestra stage continued to move up and down for performances, even as crews worked on the installation during the day.
The collaboration between APX and LGH showcased how the right equipment, paired with responsive support, can turn a challenging environment into a success story.
The Washington Pavilion project was anything but typical. By combining innovative rigging technology with hands-on support from LGH representatives, APX Construction Group delivered a precise and efficient installation. All while the show went on, quite literally.
APX is a trusted general contractor offering a comprehensive range of contracting services, known for innovative strategies and bold execution. We consistently deliver projects on time and within budget by self-performing critical tasks. From early planning and design to project completion, our team utilizes advanced technology to keep projects on track and meet all client expectations.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
