Schlossfestspiele, Schwerin

It all began in 1993 as an inside tip among opera lovers; since then it has developed into a prestigious festival performed in front of an impressive setting: the Schlossfestspiele Schwerin. From June to August, 1,800 guests attend each of the 23 evenings for the summer productions of the Mecklenburgisches Staatstheater. Works by Verdi were on the program in 2014 (Nabucco) and 2015 (La Traviata) on the open-air stage in the Alter Garten (Old Garden) - and therefore directly opposite Schwerin Castle.

Since 2009, we have planned, installed and operated the highly complex sound equipment for the outdoor performances. One special feature is the use of a so-called audio tracking system: the location of the audio source - for example that of a singer - is determined by sensors. Software routes the source signals to specific loudspeakers on the basis of the position data. The volume and delay time are adapted so that when they are set perfectly, the acoustic perception of the audience corresponds exactly to the actual position of the artist. We are also responsible for the video transmissions: cameras record the action for the conductor and others involved in the production who do not have a complete view of the stage. The singers are able to see the cues given by the conductor by means of medium long shots on a LED wall and via six concealed displays.