Sound Design

From start to finish, sound design covers far more than what sound effects or atmospheric noises come out of speakers.

Step 1

Show analysis

The initial show analysis involves discussing the type of show, the requirements of the show and what the final sound design will need to achieve. This will need to cover everything from going through the script / song list though to how many are in the band and what instruments they will be playing, casting and costume ideas and anything else that might impact the sound of the show.

If it is to be a touring show this discussion will also involve what types of venue the show will be going to. If the show is being designed for one particular venue we will look at what the venue already has, they layout and design of the venue as well as a venue visit if that’s possible.

Step 2

System Design

Making the right speaker choices, getting the right speaker placement, the correct sound desk, the correct microphones are all integral to making sure the show not only sounds it best but is also practical from an operational perspective.

Step 3

Show Design

After the initial 2 stages comes to actually putting audio to the show, sourcing any audio needed, mixing and tracks as required, potentially getting any band parts recorded with the musical director. During this whole process we make sure that we are work with you as you go along producing the show and giving you audio files to use during the creation process and rehearsals as you need them.

Step 4

Install / Technical Rehearsals

Often referred to as the Get in and Techs, this is the most critical time for getting your show right, making sure the equipment is installed into the venue correctly and making sure your show is programmed to the highest standard.

This is often where the biggest part of the team will all be required to be in the venue at one time, if we have split up the teams as it is a big show or big venue we like to make sure there is a good crossover period between the system team, the programming team and the operation team so they all know how things have been setup and can fix any issues if the arise later on. This also means during the first couple days of techs if there are any issues the system techs will be there to get them sorted out quickly meaning as little time is spent waiting as possible.

Step 5

Operation

Finally, once the show has been designed, installed and is ready to go, for longer running shows, we will make sure to leave you with an operator who can replicate the designed show and do their best to assist in any unforeseen circumstances. For shorter shows it's often the designer or programmer who will run the show.