London’s Shakespeare’s Globe has adopted Riedel Communications’ Bolero intercom system to provide communications for its two theatres, the Globe and the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. Bolero’s roaming capabilities addresses the main challenges of communication within and across these live environments, bringing new efficiency, clarity and collaboration for stage management, rehearsals and show running.
‘The range and clarity of Riedel’s Bolero intercom system have significantly enhanced our communication capabilities, transforming the way we manage our performances,’ says Shakespeare’s Globe Senior Technician, Charli Hurford. ‘The technology’s seamless roaming and plug-and-play functionality have eliminated the need for troubleshooting, resulting in more efficient technical rehearsals and smoother show running. This system has proven to be an essential tool for our stage management teams, enabling us to deliver outstanding performances.’
The Bolero system has streamlined workflows at Shakespeare’s Globe, resulting in increased efficiency and resource optimisation. With the dramatic improvement in the range and clarity of communication across both venues, the performing arts venue simultaneously reduced the required number of antennas from nine to three. The limited need for troubleshooting has eliminated downtime and waiting periods, ensuring technical rehearsals proceed seamlessly. Incorporating the Bolero system also yielded financial savings, eliminating the need for a standby technician during technical rehearsals and thereby reallocating resources more efficiently overall.
The system has also enabled Shakespeare’s Globe to rely on communication cues for complex sequences, adding an extra layer of failsafe to their performances. During the venue’s winter season, the interconnectivity between the Globe Theatre and the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse played a vital role in the production of The Winter’s Tale, which spanned both venues.
Additionally, the system’s reliability has shone in large-scale filmed events, where flawless communication is essential for smooth coordination.
Shakespeare’s Globe chose Riedel’s Bolero intercom system based on its track record in other show environments, its alignment with industry standards among major theatrical counterparts, and the exceptional support provided by the Riedel team.
‘Our technology’s ability to seamlessly bridge communication gaps in live performance environments aligns perfectly with Shakespeare’s Globe’s commitment to excellence,’ says Riedel Communications UK Sales Manager for Theatre & Industry, Nacho Lee. ‘We look forward to continuing this partnership and supporting their endeavours.’
More: www.riedel.net
