Shakespeare's Globe

Shakespeare’s Globe is a world-renowned performing arts venue, cultural attraction and education centre located on the bank of the River Thames in London.

The historic venue celebrates Shakespeare’s transformative impact on the world by conducting a radical theatrical experiment.

Home to the Globe Theatre and Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, there are guided tours, a gift shop, bar and restaurant on-site.

Sennheiser pocket receiver and headphones
The Challenge

The historic venue needed to improve access for its visually impaired audience by providing audio described performances but without visible intrusion of technical equipment. 

The Solution

Sennheiser wireless systems are widely used in performing arts venues, professional audio and broadcast and so was the preferred option. The 2020 Digital Tour Guide system provided the right coverage for the unique auditorium format at the Globe. Following extensive trials, a suitable location was found for one remote antenna to get excellent coverage, without it ever being noticed.

  • Sennheiser SR 2020 D stationary transmitter
  • Sennheiser EK 2020 D II pocket tour guide receivers
  • Sennheiser EZL 2020 D charger case
  • Sennheiser HP 02 headphones
The Benefits

Audio description captures the visual elements of a production by describing the key visual elements of the performance, thereby giving blind or partially sighted individuals a richer experience.
The advantage with the system at the Globe is that audience members can use the receiver on a neck lanyard and a choice of headphones are available (including their own) which (for those who are concerned about hygiene) is an added bonus. 

Shakespeares Globe
Image: Shakespeare’s Globe, EMILIA by Lloyd Malcolm; 31 August 2018. Credit: Helen Murray / ArenaPAL