Wuhu Shimao Riviera Garden Theatre solves acoustics with Renkus-Heinz
Published: ASIA
CHINA: A 1,200-seat theatre intended to become the cultural heart of a major new development in Wuhu, has been equipped with a sound reinforcement system from Renkus-Heinz, tackling the new building’s difficult acoustics. Named the Riviera Garden Theatre, the venue is part of the Wuhu Shimao Riviera Garden development, which covers nearly 11km of the south east bank of the Yangtze River.
Encompassing luxury residential buildings, a five-star hotel complex and more, the development is also home to the Riverside Cultural Square Cultural Arts Center – home to the Riviera Garden Theatre. Comprising a main floor and balcony, as well as 64 luxury seats in the balcony VIP area and a convertible orchestra pit, the venue was created by the Zhejiang Institute of Architectural Design. It hosts a broad range of content, from opera to spoken word performances and cinema, and therefore required a versatile reinforcement solution. Adding a further challenge to the project, meanwhile, was the design of the theatre itself.
‘The theatre’s design did not create the most perfect acoustic environment,’ explained JY Hui of CAH/Tico, who supplied the equipment for the installation. ‘Fortunately, we were able to work with the consultants to create EASE predictions and determine the optimal system design well in advance. We also encountered some logistical problems, because the architects did not reserve enough space to install the speakers. Of course, this added to the challenge.’
The Institute of Acoustics of Tongii University worked with the Shanghai branch of contractor Beijing Sebang Huayi Stage Technology Co Ltd, to create a system based around Renkus-Heinz PNX and STX Series loudspeakers.
The main system is now comprised of left, right, and centre clusters of three PNX151T loudspeakers covering medium and long throw, with STX7 cabinets handling left and right house coverage. Low frequency reinforcement is provided by a pair of DRS18-2B direct radiating subwoofers. Onstage monitoring is courtesy of four TRX121T two-way systems, while the system is powered by QSC amplification. Signal processing is via Biamp processors and a Yamaha M7CL 48-channel digital console is installed at front of house.
Following the installation, Mr Hui reported that the system had received high praise from staff and audience members alike. ‘The client has exceptionally high standards, which makes us even more pleased with the results of the system,’ he commented. ‘We felt confident that the Renkus-Heinz technology was a great fit for this application, and we are proud to say it has met and even exceeded our expectations.’