NEW YORK CITY — Clear-Com’s FreeSpeak II beltpacks are at the heart of a remarkable outdoor tracking sequence in the Broadway revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Blvd., directed by Jamie Lloyd. This cinematic, real-time scene begins backstage at the St. James Theater and spills out onto West 44th Street, with the production captured live on a massive LCD screen. The ambitious sequence, involving 62 cast and crew members, requires precision timing, flawless communication, and robust technology to execute every night. Clear-Com plays a crucial role in providing seamless communication among the diverse team as they manage complex logistics outdoors while ensuring perfect synchronization with the orchestra indoors. The real-time coordination required for this groundbreaking performance includes crowd control, outdoor route adjustments, and security, tasks made possible only with flawless communication provided by FreeSpeak II beltpacks.
The production relies on two Arcadia Central Stations, configured for main and backup redundancy, ensuring uninterrupted communication throughout the performance. Fourteen FreeSpeak II TCVR-IP-19 transceivers are strategically placed across multiple floors of the theater, including two exterior units, to provide seamless wireless coverage for the intricate outdoor sequence in Act 2. Approximately 25 FreeSpeak II BP19-X4-US beltpacks enable cast and crew to stay connected in real-time, maintaining precise coordination between indoor and outdoor locations. The wireless intercom system provides an ultra-reliable, full-duplex communication solution critical for the precision coordination required in Sunset Blvd. live outdoor sequence. Utilizing advanced digital wireless technology, FreeSpeak II offers interference-free communication even in challenging environments like the bustling streets of New York.
The system’s network architecture, built on a scalable and flexible IP-based infrastructure, supports integration with both wired and wireless communication channels. With its high-quality audio, FreeSpeak II ensured real-time communication across a wide coverage area, even with the added complexities of unpredictable weather and ambient street noise. The system’s beltpacks which are fully capable of supporting talk and listen modes with multiple channels, allow team members to instantly adjust to shifting logistical needs, whether coordinating street routes, managing security, or maintaining perfect synchronization with the indoor orchestra.
“Being part of a production that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible on stage is incredibly exciting,” said Adam Fisher, Sound Designer for Sunset Blvd. “Clear-Com’s FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system ensures that every part of this elaborate scene runs smoothly, no matter the challenges. With outdoor elements like unpredictable weather, street noise, and crowds, the system provides the real-time communication needed to keep everything in sync, making this performance a true marvel every night.”
The sequence, which has garnered significant attention on social media and in the press, features lead actor Tom Francis performing the title song amid the bustling streets of New York. From navigating street noise to handling unpredictable weather, the cast and crew rely on Clear-Com for coordination. Ensemble member Shayna McPherson also uses a camera rig to capture the outdoor action, which is then broadcast in real-time to the audience inside the theater.
“Clear-Com technology is integral to the success of this groundbreaking scene,” said Clear-Com President Bob Boster. “It’s a perfect example of how our systems can support the creative and logistical demands of live performances, from the stage to the streets. We are thrilled to be a part of this incredible production.”
The Sunset Boulevard revival at the St. James Theater continues to be a shining example of how technology enhances live theater, enabling teams to overcome unique challenges while delivering extraordinary performances night after night.
For more info, visit www.clearcom.com
For more info about the sound design for Sunset Blvd., visit: fohonline.com/articles/theater-sound/sunset-boulevard-on-broadway/
