Educational Media Foundation (EMF), home to Christian radio networks K-LOVE and Air1, has opened its new global headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, further establishing the area as a center for Christian music. Central to the 166,000-square-foot Ministry Center is the K-LOVE Center, a state-of-the-art auditorium designed for tour rehearsals, live events, concerts, and community gatherings. This premier performance space reflects EMF’s mission to create and share faith-based media, supporting not only its radio and streaming platforms but also the broader Christian music industry.

The K-LOVE Center will be used for a wide variety of performance types, from acoustic solo acts to amplified rock bands. Because of the flexibility needed for this type of space, theatrical consultant Schuler Shook specified two J.R. Clancy self-climbing truss to be installed in the front-of-house area. The truss operates with integrated motors on both ends of the unit, and cable management is handled through a pantograph system that extends and retracts as the truss moves in and out.

“The self-climbing truss offer several benefits to theaters, schools, and churches. Self-climbing hoists improve safety by reducing the need for climbing or utilizing lifts. The truss does not require the overhead space as the motors are built into the truss itself, and self-climbing hoists can be used for a wide range of applications from lighting to drapes, to scenery,” says Cat Smith of Beck Studios, who project managed and installed the theatrical equipment in the space.

The truss is controlled by a J.R. Clancy Vantis pendant controller, along with five additional J.R. Clancy drum hoists over the stage.