Curtain Call art installation enthrals

Blitz|GES, one of the UK's leading providers of live event audio visual services, was commissioned to deliver, install and support the AV technology and comprehensive WATCHOUT system behind Ron Arad’s innovative 360⁰ installation, Curtain Call, at the Roundhouse, London.

The Roundhouse originally showcased Curtain Call in 2011, winning the hearts of both art critics and visitors. For their 50th anniversary celebrations the venue re-commissioned the installation from the internationally-renowned artist. Ron Arad reinvented the experience by inviting new collaborators, along with returning artists from 2011.

The floor-to-ceiling curtain in Curtain Call is made from 5,600 eight-meter high silicon rods which are suspended from a ring, creating a 56-meter circumference canvas for film, live performance and audience interaction. The visuals are displayed via twelve 8,000 lumen Barco projectors, producing a seamless screen at 13,440 x 1,920 pixels. Control and playback is implemented via Dataton's WATCHOUT multi-display system running on 12 bespoke servers.

Blitz|GES Head of Video, Tom Chaney said, “We were delighted to again be involved in this project. This installation really brings creativity, art and technology together in an immersive experience.”

Ron Arad commented, “The installation has once again surpassed my expectations. A truly captivating experience for everyone to enjoy and a fantastic celebration of the Roundhouse."

For the 2016 event, visual artists submitted works that fully exploit the 360⁰ screen and surround sound audio. Visitors were encouraged to view the visual creations by walking through the silicon rods to enjoy a truly immersive experience. A series of unique music events took places within the installation throughout the month, including BBC Proms and the London Contemporary Orchestra.