Chelmsford Theatre Refurbishment Project May 2022 – February 2023
I was very pleased that we had the opportunity to work with Technical Display on a project of this scale. With a lot of obstacles in their way, TDS progressed through the project and delivered it to the absolutely fantastic end result we now have. The Theatre now has a dynamic, high quality PA System, audio visual system and digital signage throughout the environment, which has brought us up to date with future proofed equipment installed, serviced and managed professionally by TDS.
Paul – Chelmsford Theatre Manager
The refurbishment has transformed the theatre from a worn-out venue that hadn’t been updated for many decades, into a sleek, stylish, and welcoming space which is ready to entertain audiences.
To achieve this, the theatre’s foyers, box office, bar areas and toilets have all been upgraded, to include a PA system that channels background music and public announcements throughout all areas of the theatre. Hard of hearing loop’s in all the counters; To allow full independent control of the A/V in each area, touch screen control panels were installed, giving each zone the ability to change source, adjust volume and control the displays input options.
Having built up a strong relationship with Chelmsford City Council over many years, Technical Display Systems were approached by the theatre to secure our services. Requiring an experienced audio-visual integrator to undertake the work involved in their refurbishment project, with complete confidence, the discussions started.
From the outset, the Theatre management made it clear that any audio-visual systems should not only be cost-effective, but also future proofed for years to come, with a system that catered for all their requirements.
Technical Display Systems proposed a solution that met all their needs and more besides. The client had a good idea as to what they wanted and with professional advice and guidance from Technical Display Systems, we were able to tailor-make a bespoke system that offers flexibility, ease of use and a fully controllable management system.
To follow the scope of works issued by the main contractor, we initiated meetings with the various trades and site management with whom we would be working alongside in the 4 zones, to ensure that we were synchronised and operating as efficiently as possible.
From here, our experienced design, programming and installation teams worked together to successfully install, set up and commission all of the equipment within time scales given and with minimal disruption.
4 Zones
1 Solution
Main Foyer & Reception – Civic Bar – Balcony Bar – Cramphorn Bar
Our client had specific requirements for each of the four zones, which would give them a fully managed system that allowed them to be able to control video input to the displays, the ability to play different audio in each of the zones, and to be able to control the volume and other functions from a smart touch screen display, that allowed them to effortlessly distribute and control the video input to both portrait and landscape displays throughout the four zones.
By splitting the theatre up into zones, we worked closely with the main contractor to work as efficiently and cost effectively as possible.
Our client’s instruction included installing 3 x 55″ Samsung Dual Signage Display’s in the front of house windows, giving the theatre the ability to promote upcoming shows and performances both inside and outside. There were also 2 x 55″ LG Signage Displays and 2 x 32″ LG Signage Displays within the theatre, and we used BrightSign Media players to distribute media to all the displays, in both landscape and portrait modes.
Digital Signage & More
To give the client more input options, we included a live feed in to the displays, which allowed the performance to be viewed from the bar areas and the main foyer. We also installed a HDMI face plate to allow for additional connectivity. To give the client full control of each display, we installed SY Control panels in each zone. From the panel, the client could adjust volume, input source, and on/off functions.
For the audio and management, we installed a public announcement system that allows for both live and pre-recorded messages and also to play background music. To ensure that we had the best possible sound, we installed AD-C4T Flush Ceiling Speakers in all the zones, controlled via a Q-SYS Pro Audio System and operated by a 10″ Q-SYS touch screen control panel. Each bar zone had its own 4″ in wall touch screen control panel for independent audio control.
Easy to Control – Easy to Manage
The client asked for a hard of hearing induction loop system to be installed at the bar counters, refreshment stall counter and the main Box Office counter, enabling customers to be able to benefit from the hearing loop when ordering tickets, snacks and drinks.
To house all the distribution and amplifier equipment, we installed a rack in the server room, which meant that everything was kept tidy, organised and easily accessible for servicing.
A First-Class Performance
The end result was a completely satisfied client, who was very pleased with the end result. We completed the installation with a final walk round with the client to ensure that they were satisfied with everything, to which they were.
Our clients’ objectives were achieved within the time scales we were given, and they were very happy with everything we were asked to do.
Let the show go on!!
