Dolby Atmos makes its debut in live theaters.
It is being used in a new production of King Lear.
Since its launch in 2012, Dolby Atmos has found its place in various areas such as cinema, home theater systems, and headphones. Now, this innovative technology is being introduced into the realm of live theater with the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company’s adaptation of King Lear. Although Dolby Atmos has already been used in live events, such as concerts at Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas, this will be its first appearance in a theatrical production.
Kenneth Branagh, who stars in this play, has already utilized Dolby Atmos in his role as a director in films like Belfast. According to Jed Harmsen, head of Cinema and Group Entertainment at Dolby, "Kenneth Branagh's brilliant implementations of Dolby Atmos in film, such as in his acclaimed Belfast, demonstrate the power artists have to immerse audiences in ways that were previously impossible." Harmsen added that this collaboration will be a milestone by introducing Dolby Atmos into the world of theatrical performances, using intentional sound design that will allow the audience to dive into the universe of the play.
The performance of King Lear will take place over almost two months, from October 26 to December 15, at the Griffin Theater at The Shed in New York. Dolby Atmos promises to create sound effects and music that will surround the audience and move above the actors.