Shure is supporting the theatrical production of The Hunger Games at a purpose-built theatre in London, deploying an Axient digital wireless system.
The Hunger Games on stage required a sound design approach that can support intense choreography, complex fight sequences, flying elements, and a large performance space within a new venue designed specifically for the production.
The Autograph team specified a Shure Axient digital wireless system, selecting 36 ADX1M micro bodypack transmitters across the cast, with 11 AD4Q four-channel digital wireless receivers and two AD610 Diversity ShowLink access points to maintain continuous control and monitoring throughout the production. The wider wireless system also includes ADX2 handheld transmitters with KSM8 capsules, AD3 plug-on wireless transmitters, PSM 1000 in-ear monitoring systems, antenna distribution and combining infrastructure, rechargeable battery systems, and dedicated monitoring via Wireless Workbench and WaveTool to support daily performance operation.
As performers needed to adapt early to wearing transmitters during rehearsals, Autograph commissioned 3D-printed dummy packs so that movement and costume departments could test placement before technical rehearsals even began.
Ian Dickinson, sound designer, Autograph, commented: “We knew from the start that some moments in the show would be heavily choreographed, almost like a dance piece at times. We also had to factor in the many fight sequences, often in skin-tight body suits, so discreet equipment and comfortable positioning were absolutely essential.”
“The Shure Axient packs have been a major contributor to the success of the show. With such a physical and high-energy production, systems with external antennas would almost certainly have resulted in frequent damage and replacements. Thanks to the packs’ compact design, we’ve been able to keep pack damage to an absolute minimum, even in a show that pushes equipment to its limits.”
Photo credit: Johan Persson