Performing Arts and Education Center becomes first performing arts venue in the US state to install the Auri assistive listening system
Theatregoers at the WYO in Wyoming can now benefit from Auracast thanks to Ampetronic’s Auri system.
It has been installed in the WYO Performing Arts and Education Center (the WYO) in Sheridan, making it the first such venue in the US state to implement this cutting-edge Bluetooth LE Audio technology.
The theatre is more than 100 years old but is clearly forward looking with its desire to let anyone with Auracast enabled hearing aids, cochlear implants, headphones or ear buds hear the action in the theatre, be it a play, a musical performance, or a comedian.
Staff at the cultural landmark say they are committed to offering accessible and inclusive experiences for all audiences, in a similar way to Birmingham’s Hippodrome theatre and the Everyman in Cheltenham.
The Auri system has been installed in its main auditorium, known as Sophie’s Stage.
This rollout complements the theatre’s existing hearing loop infrastructure (the telecoil) and ensures guests have flexible, modern options for assistive listening. For patrons without Auracast-compatible devices, the theatre will let people borrow Auri receivers – which we liken to a pebble – and neck loops.
How Auracast technology supports inclusive theatre experiences
Auri operates using Auracast broadcast audio, a new standard introduced via Bluetooth LE Audio (Codec 5.2 upwards). It delivers high-fidelity, low-latency audio directly to Auracast-enabled devices.
Beyond traditional assistive listening, Auri can also be used to deliver audio description and real-time language interpretation, further enhancing the inclusivity of the venue’s offerings.
Developed jointly by Ampetronic and Listen Technologies, Auri use the Auracast technology. Its range includes transmitters, receivers, docking stations, and Manager Software, all designed for seamless venue integration.
The compact transmitters resemble Wi-Fi access points and are installed discreetly throughout the theatre, connecting to standard audio sources with low latency to enable a near-instantaneous transmission of the sound.
The system meets global assistive listening standards and represents a significant advancement in making public venues more accessible, adaptable, and audience-friendly.
WYO’s leadership highlights its commitment to accessibility, including Sophie’s Stage
The Auri installation on Sophie’s Stage is part of a wider accessibility plan that the WYO has in place and reviewed annually.
Its guiding principles include ensuring the theatre is inclusive for all, regardless of physical, sensory, cognitive, or other disabilities. While the WYO team say they will meet their legal requirements, they will be proactive in planning facility upgrades, such as this Auracast installation.
To help, it has an Accessibility Advisory Committee, and seeks feedback from its customers. Staff are given annual training to ensure they understand how best they can meet the needs of customers with additional needs, whatever they might be.
Erin Butler, executive director of the WYO, is delighted with how the Auri installation has gone in Sophie’s Stage and the opportunities that the system creates.
“The WYO is committed to making the performing arts and education accessible,” she said.
“We have fabulous performances planned and are excited to begin the next season with the Auri system installed.
“Auri offers guests another way to access assistive listening within the theatre. As Auracast-compatible devices become more prevalent, the WYO will be future-ready with Auri.
“We want to ensure guests of the WYO are aware of the assistive listening systems available and utilise them to optimise their theatre experience.”
In celebration of the new system, the WYO will host a public reception titled Experience Better Sound at the WYO on Thursday, September 25, from 6pm to 7pm MDT – or 1am-2am in the UK.
The reception will precede a performance by the Dallas String Quartet in Sophie’s Stage allowing attendees to test Auri and learn more about the WYO’s assistive listening options.
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