A new video showcasing the benefits of Auracast in open air theatre has been released by GN ReSound.
The Moesgaard Museum in Aarhus houses Europe’s largest outdoor theatre and welcomes hundred and thousands of visitors every year. It is based in
Because it is outdoors, providing accessibility can be difficult. Now, Auracast makes it easier, not least as weatherproof covers are available for transmitters and there only needs to be a wire between the AV desk and the transmitter. It is much easier to manage as a result.
The video is presented by Miguel Angel De Toro, lead research scientist at GN Hearing.
He looks at the theatre’s setup before exploring some of the problems faced by those with sight and hearing impairments. Normally, these can impact the theatregoing experience.
“Fifty per cent of hearing aid users experience technical problems in theatres and cinemas,” he explained. “Because of this 41% remove their hearing aids during live performances and 60% avoid cultural events because of their hearing.
“This is where Auracast can make a difference.”
The advantages of Auracast are explained by Keld D Nielsen, the Royal Danish Theatre’s sound engineer.
“The sound is much better,” he explained. “It’s close to them, it’s clear, they can hear everything. It’s quite easy to install; it’s only a network cable.”
For the video, Auracast was installed in one of the theatre’s seating areas. Three transmitters were used.
“I’m very glad for it,” Keld added. “I’m very glad to help people.”
Laura Kamis Wrang from 2in1voices.dk is an audio describer, helping add context to the action on stage. She said her role was about providing “little details” that set the scene, adding context to what people are hearing. She is full of praise for the new technology, saying it “invited people who are blind or visually impaired into the theatre”.
“It’s like magic, and theatre is magic,” she added.
The theatre provides audio description on selective dates.
One of the testers in the audience was Helge Engelbrecht, who wears hearing aids. He described Auracast as absolutely fantastic, adding: “It’s the first time I used this new thing and it’s so smooth, and clear, and it’s incredible.”
“This is about inclusion. This is about freedom. This is about making sure that everyone can participate,” Miguel added. “The future of accessibility is here.”
For more on GN’s hearing aid range, log on to: https://www.gnhearing.com/en/products/auracast-hearing-aids
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