Following a blind listening test last summer, Meyer Sound's M3D system was specified by sound designer, Mick Potter, and the production's creative team, including Lloyd Webber. Potter has had a long involvement with Starlight Express, which recently closed at the Apollo after an 18-year run and which was the home to one of Meyer Sound's first theatrical applications using the MSL-3 system.
Potter was based at Orbital during pre-production where the M3D was pre-flown to Meyer Sound's specifications, and is full of praise for the Meyer Sound line array products: "The usability of the M3D, as with Meyer's other loudspeakers, is superb; it sits really well with the rest of the product line, which I've never found elsewhere. The M3D has the sound characteristics of Meyer's other products, which is essential for theatrical applications, especially in this case where we're using so many other Meyer loudspeakers in a more conventional theatrical configuration. The line array is doing its job alongside their other products without any incongruity, and allows us to have the best of both worlds."
Six Meyer Sound M3Ds, with an M3D-Sub between the fourth and fifth speakers, are being flown each side of the stage, with an underhang of two Meyer Sound CQ2 loudspeakers: the system is being driven by three Meyer Sound LD-1A line drivers. A further eight CQ2 cabinets are being flown on a delay truss above the auditorium along with two additional M3D subs, providing delay to the rear and front circle. Two Meyer Sound UPA-2P loudspeakers are centrally rigged above the stage, while several UPM-2P are being used as side fills for the circle and the stalls.
Meyer Sound's MAPP (Multipurpose Acoustical Prediction Program) was an essential tool in designing the sound system for Bombay Dreams. Meyer's consultant engineer, Dave Dennison, helped Potter to plot the configuration of the Apollo system before it was installed, designing the optimum system for the venue.
Lloyd Webber is hoping his new Bollywood-influenced musical will inject life into British theatre. The M3D system will certainly ensure that audiences can enjoy the full-on Bollywood experience in the best possible sound quality.
(Lee Baldock)
