The Cutting-Edge: Canadian Theater Uses Klipsch For Digital System
By Sarah Knight
In today's ever-changing, high-tech world, it seems we are constantly doing things differently. The ways we talk on the phone, send mail and watch television have significantly advanced over the last decade. However, when it comes to a movie, concert or theatrical experience nothing seems dramatically different. That is until now.
Possibly one of North America's most advanced entertainment venues, The Centre for Performing Arts in Vancouver has revolutionized the way we experience cinema and live performances. This 81,000 square-foot auditorium uses high-performance audio and digital cinema products to create what the facility's designers call the most unique, realistic surround sound experience for both film and live performances.
By featuring dual 5.1 Dolby Digital surround sound systems powered by Klipsch cinema and stage loudspeakers, high-definition digital imaging and projection equipment and laser lights, The Centre allows audiences to experience the true vitality, intensity and passion of their favorite movies and plays.
This cutting-edge AV system makes The Centre the only digital theater and cinema environment capable of easily switching between live performance and video presentations.
In order to fill this 1,843-seat, three-level auditorium with dynamic and lifelike sound, Philip Cacayorin, directing producer of digital media for Dog House Media, Ltd. - the company that produces The Centre's audiovisual needs - chose Klipsch to be the facility's exclusive loudspeaker provider.
"I have been a Klipsch fan forever and truly believe in their design philosophies," said Cacayorin. "Klipsch's ability to reproduce and deliver higher frequencies accurately to a large audience is essential for our type of dimensional sound environment."
A multitude of Klipsch cinema and stage loudspeakers deliver The Centre's vibrant and crystal-clear sound. Cacayorin developed the dual 5.1-channel systems using three THX -approved KPT-535 behind-the-screen systems, three THX-approved KPT-535-4-T behind-the-screen systems, six THX-approved KPT-684 subwoofers, six KPT-484 subwoofers, 14 KPT-250 surrounds and three customized Klipsch products designed to meet specialized needs.
"Audiences who have never experienced Klipsch will be amazed by our dynamic range and realistic reproduction of sound," said Lance Jones, senior vice president of corporate development for Klipsch.
In addition to building The Centre's sound system, Cacayorin has designed innovative products that completely immerse guests into live theater. His virtual reality microphones connect to a Dolby Digital encoder where the performance is converted and played back in Dolby Digital 5.1 as the show progresses.
"The Centre is among the first in North America to feature highly advanced digital cinema technologies in a theatrical environment," said Cacayorin. "With its impressive and revolutionary sound system, every seat in the house becomes the ideal listening environment."
The Centre primarily offers theater, dance and music, but has the ability to host high-definition movie premieres, the production of digital content for future distribution, live digital satellite concert broadcasting and high-profile television and sporting events.
According to Cacayorin, The Centre is trying to establish a new relationship with the entertainment industry by developing cost-effective digital entertainment methodologies. By having the ability to produce, shoot and transmit its own live digital productions, The Centre can deliver alternative forms of entertainment to cinemas with digital capabilities.
Not only does The Centre have state-of-the-art sight and sound equipment, it is also flawlessly constructed using the highest quality staging, seating, fixtures and furnishings available. All four levels of the building offer washroom facilities and full bar and food service.
With a lobby that features striking marble floors and a magnificent curving staircase, The Centre is definitely a sight to behold. There are also two awe-inspiring foyers with expansive arched ceilings.
Built in 1995 by internationally acclaimed architect, Moshe Safdie, the facility originally opened as The Ford Centre for Performing Arts. In 2001, it was purchased by Four Brothers Entertainment Co. and re-opened as The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts in May 2002.
"Vancouver is a vibrant Pacific Rim city, deserving of a world-class theater that offers not only performing arts, but also provides a stage for a variety of other ventures, including high tech activities, concerts and conferences," said Dennis Law of Four Brothers Entertainment.
With all its versatility, technology and high-performance Klipsch sound, The Centre certainly proves the future of entertainment lies in the Northern Hemisphere.