Academy Music Group (AMG) has revealed a major investment at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire.
The recent improvements are the latest in a continuous programme of upgrades planned by the company across its venues.
Shepherd’s Bush Empire has undergone a comprehensive technical upgrade, transforming the venue's audio capabilities and updating the historic lighting while preserving the architectural integrity of the historic building.
Partnering with Adlib, the installation of a d&b Audiotechnik speaker system has been designed to work with and respect the historical elements of the venue, while achieving comprehensive coverage and acoustic fidelity throughout all areas of the auditorium.
“Installing this impressive audio system was essential to give our audience the very best sonic experience, ensuring that O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire’s audio capabilities are top-class, not only meeting, but exceeding what touring parties expect when they arrive at our venue” said Liam Boylan, CEO at Academy Music Group. “We host a diverse programme of live music and entertainment, and the d&b system delivers across productions and genres and improves the experience for every audience member attending shows at our venue.”
Rob Crossland, Installation Project Manager at Adlib, added: “As a Grade II listed building, it’s essential that any upgrades respect and protect its historic character. We took great care to ensure the installation of the new audio and lighting equipment were carried out sensitively, preserving the fabric of the building while enhancing the experience for audiences. We specifically ground-stacked the d&b loudspeaker system to ensure that O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire's architecture remains the star of the show, while providing touring productions with the necessary tools to deliver fantastic shows to every seat in the house.”
Adlib has also installed a new house lighting system at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire as part of this project. The system features spotlights, wash lights, strobes and blinders from leading lighting fixture manufacturers, including Robe, GLP and Chauvet, with the ability to create visual presentations independently or working with touring live productions.
Alongside this comprehensive technical upgrade, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire has also undergone a significant refurbishment of the Level 1 Balcony.
Bill Marshall, general manager, O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, said: “O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire is such a loved venue, and the management team here collectively hold 100 years of experience working with this legendary building. It’s been an absolute joy to see our experienced venue team and the passionate Adlib crew collaborating to bring the amazing new d&b system to life, along with the creative input and expertise from Jim Boyle, Ben Smith and Paula Trounce on the light installation.
“Stepping out onto the Level 1 balcony has always been an awe-inspiring experience, but the refurbishment of that space has raised the bar even further, and we can’t wait for people to come in and see, hear and feel the updates we’ve made.”
O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire’s upcoming programme includes shows from Amble, Those Damn Crows, Tide Lines, Carpenter Brut, Heaven 17, The Fray, Chris McCausland and Serena Terry.
PHOTO: Luke Dyson
FOLLOW 
