Xavier has recently received new technology in the theater department, allowing the school to produce more efficient and incredible performances.
Over the summer, the theater department installed new lighting and audio equipment bought in 2023. The new tech was installed throughout the main theater and center stage. The staff has planned to use the new equipment to enhance future performances.
Xavier’s audio department has expanded its wireless technology by buying new microphones and receivers. The receivers are part of the new wireless microphone system which allows for the staff to remotely fix any issues with an actor’s mic while she is performing on stage.
“The actors can be dancing on stage and you can change their frequency on the spot,” said Eric Lambert, director of lighting and sound.
More than 32 microphones were bought along with belt packs to prevent future malfunctions at a distance without putting a show in jeopardy, explained Jacob Dadisman, director of systems technology in Xavier’s audio and video department.
This has allowed for the audio staff to have greater control and improved their work behind the scenes.
“It will give the students confidence,” Dadisman said
In addition, the audio department has obtained a word clock to boost upcoming performances. A word clock is a device that uses a time code to record and plan a show prior to performing, Lambert explained.
It is a tool that synchronizes with different devices to allow sounds, lights and projects to launch on cue automatically.
“We can now have the sound console talk to the lighting console and the projector,” Lambert said. “Everything is one ecosystem. Now all the equipment talks with each other.”
This device has made it possible to further produce complex and entertaining shows.
All throughout the PAC, brand new line array speakers were installed to create better sound. These speakers are small, flexible and very versatile, improving the audio quality from before, according to Dadisman.
For years, the Events department had been trying to get these speakers to achieve their goal of more clarity during shows.
“Everyone will be seen and heard. That is our number one goal,” Dadisman said.
All the lighting within the PAC has also been replaced with LED lighting, making the lighting more efficient. Light dimmers and fixtures were installed as well, to further enhance quality and control.
The lighting staff will be able to manipulate and control LED color features effortlessly, granting unlimited possibilities for upcoming shows, said Aaron Sanquez, system technician.
“Hopefully I’m now not distracting, but I’m adding to the performance with my lights,” Sanquez said.
In addition to the new equipment, the PAC received a LED video wall that replaced the previous screen projection.
“We want to give as many students as possible the opportunity to perform whether they have one line or 100 lines,” Dadisman said.
