DEVENT planning resources
Workshop Room Layouts: Theatre, Classroom and Cabaret
Choose a workshop layout around the activities rather than the largest advertised capacity. Ask the venue for a plan showing furniture, equipment and clear routes in the actual room.
Use theatre for audience focus
Rows facing the front can suit a presentation with limited table work. Check sightlines, microphone access, note-taking needs and the space for people using mobility aids within the actual proposed layout.
Use classroom for individual work
Tables facing the presenter offer space for writing or laptops. Ask about power, screen visibility and room for movement; the capacity may differ from a theatre arrangement in the same room.
Use cabaret for group discussion
Small groups at tables can work for discussion while preserving a view towards the presenter. Confirm table orientation, the number of seats actually used and whether participants can hear each other.
Test activities and access
Walk through registration, group exercises, breaks and movement to toilets. Check access to the presentation area and offer guests a private way to discuss individual requirements.
Confirm the final plan
Ask who sets and resets the room, where screens and microphones go, and whether a layout change requires extra time or staff. Share the approved plan with the facilitator and venue coordinator.
Worked example · illustrative details
A training session with discussion
The organiser chooses cabaret tables for group work, checks that each table can see the screen and asks the venue to confirm accessible routes. The facilitator receives the layout and a microphone for whole-room discussion.
Your next steps
- List the activities and equipment.
- Compare theatre, classroom and cabaret layouts.
- Check sightlines, sound and accessible routes.
- Agree the final room plan and setup time.
Common questions
Which layout has the highest capacity?
It depends on the room, furniture and equipment. Ask the venue for figures for each actual layout.
Can the room layout change during an event?
Ask the venue about staff, time and any conditions before including a changeover in the schedule.
Useful next steps
Sources and further reading
Explore DEVENT before choosing your plan
Try sample tools and review current access, plan availability and automatic communication requirements.
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