& Introducing Nick Grossmann
As Wenger marks the 30th anniversary of our iconic Diva® Full-Stage Acoustical Shell in 2025, we also celebrate the career of Mark Ingalls, who retired after 37 memorable years. Mark has been at the heart of Wenger’s success in developing custom acoustical shells, beginning with the launch of Diva and driving subsequent innovations. He’s collaborated with acousticians, architects and theatrical consultants on numerous notable projects across North America and around the world.
The Diva Revolution
When the Diva Acoustical Shell debuted in 1995, it transformed the industry with its
lightweight aluminum frame, air mover and unparalleled customization options. Mark played a pivotal role in its development to ensure it met the needs of every stakeholder.
“Early in the process, we held three separate focus groups with acousticians, theatre consultants and end users. Each group had unique concerns – from mass and volume to portability and maintenance. The combined input really gave us a broad perspective,” Mark recalls.
The resulting breakthrough product established the new standard for acoustical shells. The Diva air transporter was even granted a U.S. Patent.
Driven by Expert Input
The Diva shell’s achievement was rooted in Wenger’s willingness to listen and adapt. Acousticians wanted more mass and taller towers for increased cubic volume and better diffusion, while theatre consultants focused on functionality and maneuverability. Architects appreciated aesthetic versatility and custom finish options. Mark and his team listened and learned, all the while transforming feedback into ingenuity.
“Once the consultants realized we were willing to do anything, they got really creative,” Mark says.
Over the years, the Diva shell became the springboard for countless custom shell projects – featuring special shapes and enhanced height options along with distinctive finishes like custom veneers and inlaid patterns. The demand for taller towers led to redesigning the Diva’s framework to reach 40 feet if necessary. Wenger’s engineering flexibility became a hallmark of the brand, driven by consultants’ creative vision.
Building the Future
While Mark is stepping back, Wenger’s commitment to collaboration and forward-thinking design remains stronger than ever. Our approach to designing and manufacturing custom acoustical shells is guided by the same principle that made Diva so successful: listening to the industry to deliver tailored solutions.
As Mark reflects on his career, he takes pride in helping Wenger establish its reputation as the world’s premier acoustical shell manufacturer: “We went from standard shells to… just try to think of something we can’t do. It’s been a
good, fun ride,” Mark notes.
With 30 years of Diva shell excellence and countless custom projects under our belt, Wenger will continue to build on Mark’s legacy by partnering with the industry to enrich lives by enabling and inspiring great performances.
Looking Ahead; Introducing Nick Grossmann
Thank you to Mark Ingalls for his dedication and vision – and to our consultant partners whose creativity and ideas continue to motivate us. We’re excited to keep pushing boundaries together, setting new standards for acoustical shell excellence.
Going forward, Wenger’s acoustical shell development will be led by Nick Grossmann, Acoustics Product Manager. Nick joined Wenger in 2018 as a Senior Design Engineer, working mainly with Diva and custom full-stage shells, including the custom shell for the Fischer Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. He also gained exposure to a wide range of Wenger’s acoustical products, from SoundLok® Music Practice Rooms to Transform® Motorized Acoustical Banners. Nick led engineering efforts for other prominent projects including the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center in Auburn, AL; his most recent project was the Kimball Recital Hall at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
“I love seeing the end result when projects come together, when people are wowed by what we’ve done and can see and hear the difference,” explains Nick.
