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Figaro Technology Case Study:
No longer a novelty, it’s a necessity.
Wiener Staatsoper - Wien, Austria
Imagine the problems involved with installing a modern technology into the historic cultural heart of a nation The architect had concerns about the design of the system, the theatre worried about interruptions to the performance schedule, the historic preservationists had concerns about the appearance, the fire and building inspectors had to ensure that the building codes were followed exactly and the public were skeptical, even the cleaners were worried that the system would get in their way.
As with all our opera projects, we engaged in numerous conversations with all the people responsible to achieve consensus and approval for the project.
The Staatsoper Director, Ion Holender saw this new technology as vital to the future of his beloved Opera House and helped to convince everyone that Simultext® would be a “hit.
And his vision was prescient; the Viennese, born and raised on opera, instantly accepted the system from the very first performance, as if it had always been there. It continues to be an enriching and integral part of their opera experience.
This was Figaro’s first Liquid Crystal Display installation, but more importantly, this project evolved our international design process, extending the dialogue with all stakeholders. It was our first step onto the world stage.
For more information, please visit Wiener Staatsoper
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“Figaro's titling system has elevated our new home, the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, to a state-of-the-art theatre. Our audiences are now wonderfully spoiled and their opera-going experience is world class thanks to this feature. It's hard to imagine any new or renovated theatre without Figaro.”
— James Robinson,
Artistic Director of
Opera Colorado Maestro Ricardo Muti, "They [Figaro's seatback displays] aren’t subtitles or surtitles. Instead, the display is a modern version of the libretto. Much in the way an opera afficionado follows the opera score with a small flashlight. In addition, they are a democratic means: you can decide to keep them on or turn them off.”
— Il Giornale 8 December 2002,
p23 Il maestro: “Prima della cultura ci sono I drammi della vita”
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