LANDESTHEATER SALZBURG
Salzburger Landestheater ©Neumayr/Christian Leopold
ENHANCING THEATRICAL EXCELLENCE IN HISTORIC SALZBURG
The Salzburger Landestheater, a cultural landmark in Austria since its construction in 1892/93, has long been a cornerstone of Salzburg's arts scene. Hosting approximately 25 new productions annually across genres including drama, opera, ballet, musical theater, and concerts, this 697-seat multi-disciplinary venue holds a cherished place in the region’s cultural fabric. However, in recent years, its acoustic shortcomings drew increasing criticism, particularly from the Mozarteumorchester, the theater’s main musical partner.
Faced with issues ranging from insufficient reverberation time to discomfort in the orchestra pit, the theater underwent a significant modernization project in 2022 to preserve its legacy while meeting the demands of contemporary performance standards.
PRESERVING HISTORY WHILE EMBRACING MODERNITY
The €14 million renovation, jointly funded by the regional and city governments, aimed to balance respect for the theater’s historic character with the integration of cutting-edge technology. Key priorities included improving the acoustics for both performers and audiences without altering the theater’s architectural heritage.
“The installation of numerous speakers was carried out invisibly to respect the theater's listed status,” explained Michael Haarer, the theater’s technical director. “No speakers or the reverberation system are visible in the auditorium, but the difference in sound is undeniable.”
A MULTIMODAL APPROACH TO ACOUSTIC DESIGN
Addressing a variety of challenges required a comprehensive acoustic strategy. Among the main issues was the theater’s short reverberation time, which hindered singers from projecting their voices above the orchestra and left audiences struggling to hear with clarity. Meanwhile, the orchestra pit posed difficulties for musicians, both in terms of sound balance and physical comfort.
To resolve these issues, the team implemented several key interventions:
Orchestra Pit Optimization: Acoustic reflection and noise management in the pit were enhanced to create a more supportive environment for musicians.
Elimination of Disruptive Sounds: Structural noises such as creaking wooden elements in the seating tiers were addressed, and a new set of chairs was selected to improve acoustics.
Audience Area Enhancements: The replacement of curtains and wallpapers contributed to better sound distribution throughout the space.
At the heart of the project was the integration of a variable electroacoustic system, designed to provide adjustable acoustic settings tailored to different performance types.
Salzburger Landestheater ©Neumayr/Christian Leopold
THE ROLE OF ACTIVE ACOUSTICS
A key component of the upgrade was the installation of the Amadeus Core 128 signal processor (with Immersive Audio module), supplied by Amadeus Acoustics. This system powers a network of 41 wall-mounted speakers integrated seamlessly into the interior façade, supported by four subwoofers in the front seating area. The system also includes 27 microphones—17 cardioid microphones on the ceiling and balconies, two omnidirectional microphones in the chandelier, and eight directional microphones on stage—to capture and regenerate sound within the space.
The audio system also incorporates a Q-Sys Core processor, which serves as the central hub for managing audio distribution and system integration. Furthermore, the inclusion of Q-Lab for show control allows for precise synchronisation of sound effects and cues during performances, enhancing the overall production quality.
Crucially, the Amadeus Core 128 includes the Immersive Audio module, enabling a fully immersive audio experience within the theater. Through the Q-Lab integration, the immersive module enhances productions by creating dynamic, spatial soundscapes that adapt to different performances. This feature allows for the seamless positioning and movement of sound sources, elevating audience engagement and deepening the artistic impact.
This setup enables the creation of custom acoustic presets, allowing for optimal sound quality across diverse production needs, from spoken-word theater to operatic performances. As Haarer described, “The system allows us to maximize speech intelligibility for plays while enhancing the immersive sound experience during opera nights.”
IMPACT AND OUTCOMES
The results of the renovation have been transformative for both performers and audiences. Enhanced sound clarity and immersive experiences have elevated the audience’s overall enjoyment, aligning the theater’s acoustic quality with its artistic ambitions.
Furthermore, noise reduction in the orchestra pit has improved working conditions for musicians, mitigating potential long-term hearing risks and enhancing their ability to engage with the performance.
The success of the project underscores the potential of integrating modern acoustic technologies into historic spaces without compromising their character.
A MODEL FOR THE FUTURE
The renovation of the Salzburger Landestheater exemplifies how innovative approaches can preserve historical charm while advancing artistic excellence. “The close collaboration between all involved—planners, electroacoustic experts, and artists—was incredibly enriching,” said Haarer. “We stayed aligned on our goals, created synergies, and achieved success together over the two-year process.”
This case study stands as a testament to the possibilities of modernizing historic venues, ensuring they continue to inspire for generations to come.
Salzburger Landestheater ©Neumayr/Christian Leopold
Technical Highlights:
Amadeus Core 128 Signal Processor (with Immersive Audio module)
Q-Sys Core Processor
Q-Lab Integration for Show Control
41 wall-mounted speakers (NEXO ID14)
4 subwoofers (NEXO L15)
27 microphones:
17 cardioid microphones (Audio-Technica U853, cardioid)
2 omnidirectional microphones (Audio-Technica U853, omni)
8 directional microphones (Schoeps MiniCmit)
This careful blending of tradition and innovation showcases how acoustic excellence can redefine the role of historic venues in a modern cultural landscape.
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