PROFESSIONAL WIRELESS SYSTEMS GOES ON THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME FOR THRILLING OPENING OF THE ORLANDO EYE
Team’s Expertise in Wireless Solutions Ensures Sound Inauguration of Latest Orlando Attraction
ORLANDO, MAY 18, 2015 — When the world’s fifth largest observation wheel, the Orlando Eye, celebrated its opening, Professional Wireless Systems (PWS) went along for the ride, providing its expert wireless solutions for the Merlin Entertainments attraction’s nationwide-anticipated press event. During the event, daredevil Nik Wallenda walked across the rim of the 400-foot observation wheel untethered in front of hundreds of journalists from around the country during a live, national television broadcast.
The press watched the famed daredevil complete one of his most dangerous, death-defying stunts, to-date. In preparation for the crowds of reporters ready to swarm the scene, Bob Glickman, Glickman Productions event producer, along with Glickman Productions’ audio designer, Travis Hill, collaborated with PWS for the team’s seasoned expertise in managing wireless communications during large-scale entertainment events. LMG was the main audio provider for the event.
“Hill specifically wanted to work with a team that would be comfortable handling the press,” says Evan Hall, PWS project manager. “Having worked hundreds of press events, the team is well-equipped to handle check-in and understand how to effectively communicate and coordinate with all production personnel on a high-profile entertainment project to ensure a smooth, interference-free event.”
Under the leadership of Hall, the PWS crew, including Eric Radvanyi, RF assistant; and Chris Caiazzo, press interface and PWS freelancer, handled the wireless intercom for all stage managers positioned around the observation wheel and supported all communications to the stage managers and safety personnel surrounding Wallenda during his stunt. “We had to cover production crew members stationed on the ground surrounding the observation wheel, as well as the stage managers positioned inside some of the 30 passenger capsules who were in constant communication with additional team members spread out across multiple rooftops,” he says.
To complement the audio, video and lighting equipment provided by Glickman Productions, PWS supplied a comprehensive wireless systems package, including Radio Active Designs’ UV-1G systems with 24 belt packs for wireless intercoms for their impressive range and ability to work within the VHF spectrum, as well as an assortment of PWS VHF panels and Helical Antennas. “Utilizing the VHF spectrum during this event was a game changer for us, as we were able to manage wireless communications for the event with only two zones of intercom,” Hall adds. “If we relied on the UHF spectrum instead, we would have had to deploy more antennas and run more cables, complicating the entire setup.”
In all, Wallenda’s stunt and the opening of the latest attraction to grace the Orlando I-Drive 360 entertainment complex proved successful. “Hall, Radvanyi and Caiazzo all did a terrific job in anticipating any concerns and maintaining effective communication with all involved production personnel,” concludes Jim Van Winkle, PWS general manager. “We are very thankful to have been given the opportunity to work closely with Glickman Productions, Travis Hill and LMG to ensure an incredible, action-packed unveiling.”
Located in the most-visited tourist destination in the world, the Orlando Eye made its official opening to the public on May 4. For more information, visit https://www.officialorlandoeye.com/.
For more information about Professional Wireless Systems, visit http://www.professionalwireless.com.
About Masque Sound
Founded in 1936 by a trio of Broadway stagehands, Masque Sound evolved into one of NYC’s most successful theatrical sound reinforcement, installation and design companies specializing in theatrical, house of worship, sporting, corporate, TV broadcast and live concert events. Celebrating more than 75 years in the industry, the company is led by President Stephanie Hansen and the firm’s third generation owner, Geoff Shearing. The company also operates Florida-based Professional Wireless Systems, a leader in the development and implementation of wireless technology. Credits range from major Broadway shows and tours including “Phantom of the Opera,” “Mamma Mia!,” “Lion King,” “Jersey Boys,” “Memphis,” “The Book of Mormon,” “Newsies,” “Once” and “Kinky Boots” to yearly Super Bowl broadcasts and installations of varying sizes, including New York’s New Victory Theater and historic St. Bartholomew’s Church. Masque Sound’s 70,000 sq. ft. corporate headquarters and main assembly facility is located at 21 East Union Ave., East Rutherford, NJ, 20 minutes from midtown Manhattan. For more information, call (201) 939-8666 or visit www.MasqueSound.com.
