Rochester Voice 5:54 a.m.
Sunday, February 22, 2026 5:54 am
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After years of planning The Rochester Opera House recently took a major step forward in enhancing its production capabilities with the installation of a state-of-the-art fly systemknown as a Thern Clew Winch System.
The upgrade marks a significant investment in the theater's future, enabling larger, safer, and more technically ambitious productions for years to come.
Since 1908, the theater had relied on a traditional counterweight fly system, using heavy sandbags to off-set the weight of the four main electric batons and movie screen. The system underwent major structural improvements prior to reopening in 1997, but still relied on the counterweight systems to "fly" most of the line sets.
The system was durable, but limited and outdated which posed a safety concern for actors and crew members. Productions have also grown in scale and complexity, and therefore the demands placed on the aging rigging system had increased. Recognizing both safety concerns and an opportunity to expand artistic possibilities, the theater's board of directors and artistic team launched a campaign to fund a plan to modernize.
The Thern Clew Winch System is a professional-grade rigging solution designed to improve safety, efficiency, and precision backstage. The system operates using a heavy-duty cable wound around a drum inside the winch. As the drum turns, it evenly raises or lowers the attached batons. Integrated braking mechanisms and load-holding features keep lines secure at any position, allowing technicians to make smooth and controlled adjustments. The system was installed by Barbizon Lighting System and Major Theatre Equipment Corporation.
The Rochester Opera House carried out the improvements with support from The NHSCA and The McIninch foundation, along with additional financing secured through HRCU.