Scalable technology infrastructure sets the stage for the future of Broadway

Since before the Revolutionary War, theater on Broadway has had along-standing tradition: When the curtain goes up, audiences are transported by the stories and artistry presented onstage.

Behind the scenes, however, things have changed rapidly. In the last decade, these live performances have grown to rely on an array of dazzlingly choreographed technologies that coordinate crucial show components such as sound and lighting, scenery changes and more.

Yet, an outdated digital infrastructure threatened the ability of one theater company that owns and operates several locations in Manhattan’s renowned theater district from delivering the latest show technologies. Its network lacked the reliability and capacity to handle the technological demands of the organization’s clients: top production companies seeking a venue for their shows.

The theater company turned to Spectrum Business to ensure it could support the needs of its clients — today and in the future.

A digital infrastructure ready for today and tomorrow

“Just as in other industries, Broadway is moving from an analog world to a digital one,” says the vice president of the theater company. “Having the backbone to support what is necessary now, and then envisioning what will be necessary in the future from a digital perspective is very important, and that’s what Spectrum Business has helped us do.”

He credits Spectrum Business with designing a solution that considered current needs — and prepared them for future ones. The solution includes 500 Mbps of dedicated Dedicated Fiber Internet (DFI) service and Managed WiFi, which enables the company to attract more popular, high-grossing shows that need reliable connectivity to help create Broadway magic.

Managed WiFi leverages the high-speed connectivity of the Dedicated Fiber Internet service, allocating the appropriate bandwidth to support different usage needs. This scalability ensures that the solution can easily handle the bandwidth that rapidly evolving technologies might demand.

Production companies are already testing emerging technologies early and often in an effort to surprise and delight their audiences. “It’s show business, and production company requirements aren’t cookie cutter,” the theater company vice president says. If more bandwidth is needed for a show, the theater company calls the Spectrum Business team.

For example, one production company needed to automate the movement of large pieces of scenery using a WiFi signal. “In the past, we could not successfully support that request,” says the vice president. “We’re now able to tell them comfortably and confidently that we can handle it.”

Sensors, connectivity and the future

The theater company is planning many new innovations that will help production companies deliver performances that will wow audiences. In the works are using WiFi-connected sensors to control lighting and monitor equipment maintenance needs.

In the meantime, potential show partners ask, “Can you provide me with connectivity that will ensure a flawless production every night?”

The vice president says “yes” with confidence.

Does your network support future innovations? Read our executive brief to find out.