Following a competitive pitch, the Trust appointed UK creative design and AV specialist Sarner to redevelop the visitor centre and give the Bard a modern makeover. Utilising its in-house creative and AV departments, Sarner designed a fully automated dark 'walk through' experience using the latest in AV technology, including seamless widescreen projection, and "has presented fascinating Shakespeare-related artefacts in a dynamic way that encapsulates the excitement and passion of the man himself".
To provide natural quality audio, excellent intelligibility and good controlled coverage within the zones, Sarner chose Community loudspeakers. A combination of Community I/O5s, I/O8s and VLF208 subs were used throughout the installation for both the program surround audio, feature presentations and the many spot effects.
Lincoln Clarke, head of tourism and marketing at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, concluded, "This project has been extremely important to us as it's the centrepiece of the five houses that The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust opens to the public in and around Stratford. We're thrilled with what Sarner has created to give visitors a spectacular new experience and insight into the life of our greatest playwright, William Shakespeare."
(Jim Evans)