The Public Theatre boasts several expansive venues, including its landmark downtown home on Astor Place, which houses five theatres plus Joe's Pub; the Delacorte Theatrein Central Park, home to its free Shakespeare in the Park; and the Mobile Unit, which tours Shakespearean productions for underserved audiences throughout New York City's five boroughs.
Recently named audio supervisor of the famed establishment, Corrine Livingston manages upwards of 20 plus shows and productions throughout The Public Theatre's different venues in a given year, including Shakespeare in the Park. In order to ensure that each show provides audiences with the clear, dynamic audio that they have come to expect, Livingston relies exclusively on Masque Sound's custom audio equipment packages to meet The Public Theatre's vast sound requirements.
"With all of the logistics, managing and planning that goes into running all of these venues and associated shows, knowing that Masque Sound is providing all of our audio equipment is one less thing I have to worry about," says Livingston. "I am always looking for ways to take our productions to the next level and build upon the wonderful work my predecessors have created. With Masque Sound's extensive inventory and expert team, I am afforded the opportunity to do so."
Shakespeare in the Park moved to its permanent home at the Delacorte Theater in 1962, and, since then, over five million New York natives and visitors alike have enjoyed free Shakespeare performances each summer season. The majestic, open-air theatre has a seating capacity of 1,800, and each season, more than 100,000 people attend performances produced by The Public Theatre. Since Shakespeare in the Park's inception, more than 150 productions have been presented for free at the venue.
"Masque Sound has enjoyed a long and successful relationship with The Public Theatre, especially the Delacorte and its summer productions of free Shakespeare in the Park," says Stephanie Hansen, vice president and general manager, Masque Sound. "Having served as the Delacorte's audio equipment provider since its first production, which took place more than 50 years ago, is quite an accomplishment and something we take great pride in. With the support of Corrine and everyone at The Public Theater, we look forward to continuing to provide our custom audio solutions to The Public Theater's multitude of productions in the years to come."
This summer's free Shakespeare in the Park performances include Much Ado About Nothing, directed by Jack O'Brien, and King Lear, directed by Daniel Sullivan, which is slated to open on 22 July and conclude on 17 August.
(Jim Evans)
