Concert-Like Acoustics at the Szeged Open-Air Festival with New Sound Technology

The latest sound technology introduced at the Szeged Open-Air Festival recreates the acoustic experience of a live concert. Thanks to a state-of-the-art loudspeaker system, digital mixing console, and advanced microphones, the sound quality of the theatrical festival now rivals that of modern concert halls.

During the weekend, classical music, rock, and pop filled the venue—not as part of the ongoing production of Jekyll and Hyde, but as part of a comprehensive sound test following a major technical upgrade. The renewed equipment was presented to visitors, many of whom were international professionals, through morning workshops and afternoon demonstrations.

Three Major Innovations in Theatre Sound

According to the festival’s technical team, the open-air theatre beneath the iconic “starry roof” now benefits from three significant audio innovations. Systems specifically designed for theatrical use make it possible to model concert hall acoustics, creating a lifelike and natural sound environment for performances.

One of the key technological advances is the implementation of 3D sound techniques that help eliminate echoes caused by reflections from the surrounding walls of Dóm Square. As sound engineer Lajos Pánczél explained, the side loudspeakers are calibrated to play slightly louder than those facing the audience directly, effectively suppressing reflected noise and improving clarity throughout the auditorium.

At the heart of the upgrade is the Hungarian-developed ESAudio sound system, associated with Sándor Elek. The system provides a more natural, “musical” sound character while reducing the harshness often caused by mid-frequency microphone artifacts, resulting in a more balanced and authentic listening experience.

Advanced Digital Tools and Software Integration

The new setup also includes the latest generation of digital microphones and a modern mixing console, complemented by specialized software development. With the help of Carsten Kümmel’s Pandora program, even audience members seated at the edges of the auditorium can experience true stereo sound, ensuring consistent audio quality across the entire venue.

These new technologies attracted significant professional interest during the demonstrations, especially as they were used specifically for the performances of the musical-thriller Jekyll and Hyde. The premiere audiences could also observe the sensitivity of the advanced equipment, as such systems can attract lightning; therefore, they are handled with particular care and are immediately shut down in case of storms or lightning.

Technology Enhancing Upcoming Productions

Audiences will continue to experience these innovations in several productions at the Szeged Open-Air Festival, including Hegyen-völgyön lakodalom, Cavalleria Rusticana, Pagliacci, and Mágnás Miska. The upgraded sound system ensures that both musical and dramatic performances are delivered with exceptional clarity and immersive depth.

A Grand Opening with Jekyll and Hyde

The 2012 season of the Szeged Open-Air Festival opened with the musical-thriller Jekyll and Hyde, a production that explores the boundaries between science and ethics, as well as the responsibility of the scientist and the endurance of love. The performances, staged on July 6, 7, and 8 in the open-air theatre, invited audiences to reflect on the eternal conflict between good and evil.

Monumental stage designs by Kentaur transformed the venue into a series of vivid environments, from a secret laboratory and a London park at night to a temple ceremony and a bustling underworld setting. The story follows the respected Dr. Jekyll, who embarks on a daring experiment to separate the dual nature of human personality—the good and the evil. When society rejects his work, he ultimately tests the serum on himself, unleashing the dangerous and uncontrollable Mr. Hyde.

In this Hungarian production, originally co-produced by the Győr National Theatre, the title role is performed by László Molnár, who brings the dual personality to life with remarkable vocal contrast. The supporting roles are portrayed by Bernadett Tunyogi as Emma, Kata Janza as Lucy, and Péter Forgács as John Utterson.

Accompanied by live orchestra and enhanced by modern 3D sound technology, the world-famous melodies of Frank Wildhorn are presented with album-quality clarity. Songs such as “Outskirts,” “Facade,” and the dramatic ensemble numbers resonate with exceptional precision, while solo pieces like Lucy’s and Dr. Jekyll’s songs gain new emotional depth through the immersive acoustic environment.

The dynamic stage elements, rapid scene transitions, and continuously evolving musical atmosphere are further supported by the advanced sound design. Together with the visual spectacle and choreography, the upgraded audio system elevates the overall theatrical experience, drawing the audience deeper into the psychological and emotional journey of the performance.