The iconic Genesee Theatre, located in Waukegan, Illinois, has set a new standard in sound technology with the implementation of a Meyer Sound PANTHER™ system, marking a significant enhancement in its nearly century-long tradition of live entertainment.
Originally inaugurated in 1927 as a majestic movie palace, this 2,400-seat venue —owned by the City of Waukegan and managed by the nonprofit Friends of the Historic Genesee Theatre— has shifted its programming in recent years towards concerts, necessitating a more robust and versatile sound system.
The Meyer Sound M2D system, installed in 2004, was designed for musicals, conferences, and film screenings. However, the theater's increasing focus on concerts led to supplementing this system with rented equipment.
In collaboration with TC Furlong, Inc., Meyer Sound, and the theater's experienced technical team, an advanced PANTHER system was designed and installed, offering an unprecedented auditory experience in every seat while seamlessly integrating into the venue’s iconic architecture. This upgrade allows the theater to combine its historic grandeur with cutting-edge sound quality for the enjoyment of audiences and artists alike.
Preserving historical architecture
Preserving the aesthetics of the ceiling, a centerpiece of the theater’s historical architecture, was a priority. This meant the new system had to be visually discreet. The design included low-stack systems and balcony-hung arrays, painted in a pale yellow shade to blend subtly with the surroundings.
The design is unconventional. The balcony has its own system, and the main floor has another, as the 2001 renovation brought the balcony much closer to the stage. From the last row, the viewing angle to the stage is limited. While the under-balcony system is excellent, visiting engineers often prefer to see the main speakers on the stage, explains TC Furlong, founder of TC Furlong Inc. and responsible for both the new system and the one installed two decades ago.
Technology that makes a difference
The main system consists of ground-stacked arrays on the left and right, each with three PANTHER line array speakers (in narrow, standard, and wide coverage versions) and two 2100-LFC™ subwoofers per side.
“The biggest challenge has always been reaching the under-balcony area”, says Matt Folkert, the theater’s production manager. “Previously, we used Meyer Sound MTS-4 speakers as stacks, and we decided to maintain that setup to ensure uniform coverage. With the PANTHERs and subs at the sides of the stage, we achieved perfect coverage of this critical area”.
Furlong adds that ground-stacking the speakers minimizes image distortion, as the speakers align with the artists. “Although some uniformity in levels is sacrificed—those closest to the stack hear a different level than those farther away—the smoothness of the PANTHER sound ensures that everyone enjoys it equally”.
Since suspending subwoofers was not an option, Furlong installed two 1100-LFC™ subs under the stage, creating a two-way subwoofer system:
The 1100-LFCs handle frequencies from 50 Hz and below, while the 2100-LFCs cover frequencies from approximately 40 Hz to just over 100 Hz. It’s an incredibly effective system that allows for enhanced acoustic pressure when needed, delivering impressive special effects.
Additional elements for complete coverage
The system is complemented by:
- Two ULTRA-X42™ compact speakers as front fills.
- Four UP-4slim speakers for box seat fills.
- Five ULTRA-X20™ speakers at the front of the stage.
- Nine ULTRA-X20™ speakers for under-balcony areas.
- Two Galileo® GALAXY 816 network platforms for system control.
“The performance of the ULTRA-X20™ under the balcony is impressive”, says Furlong. “It’s undoubtedly the best under-balcony experience I’ve had. Even during very loud shows, there’s no problem”.
Enthusiastic reception
The system debuted in late 2023 to unanimous praise from audiences, guest artists, and the technical team.
“Many of the touring productions we’ve hosted are thrilled with the new system”, says Folkert. “Additionally, we’re seeing Meyer Sound appear more frequently in rider specifications, reaffirming that this was an excellent investment”.
The main goal, Folkert notes, was to achieve consistent sound across both the upper and lower levels. “Now, the sound under the balcony is much fuller, with significantly improved clarity. We are very pleased with the results”.
Image credits: TC Furlong
