The historic Théâtre des Variétés has long been a cultural landmark, having welcomed legendary performers such as Maurice Chevalier and Josephine Baker during its rich music hall heritage.

Originally designed by architect Paul Harrant in 1904, the theatre has recently undergone an extensive restoration. The project carefully balanced preserving the venue’s historic charm with introducing modern technical capabilities, ensuring it can support contemporary productions without compromising its character.

Working on the project, Scenarchie collaborated with stage equipment specialists TEXEN Vendargues and TEXEN Aix-en-Provence to deliver a discreet yet powerful audio solution.

A key requirement was that the sound system remain visually unobtrusive. To achieve this, loudspeakers from the NEXO ID Series were selected in white to blend seamlessly into the theatre’s architecture.

Pairs of NEXO ID84 column speakers are installed on the stage frame and first-floor balcony, supported by IDS312 and L15 subwoofers to provide low-frequency reinforcement.

The 1-metre-high ID84 features a distinctive configuration of eight 4-inch drivers combined with dome tweeters on a curved baffle. This design delivers low distortion and a refined, hi-fi sound performance, extending its application beyond traditional speech reinforcement. A rear-panel directivity switch allows quick adjustment of vertical HF dispersion, enabling consistent coverage and impressive throw throughout the auditorium.

Additional support is provided by ultra-compact ID14 loudspeakers, used for under-balcony fill and monitoring, with the system powered by NXAMP4X1Mk2 and NXAMP4X2Mk2 Powered TD Controllers for precise system management and optimisation.

Commenting on the installation, NEXO’s French Sales Manager, Stéphane Brocard, praised the project team, highlighting the ability of the ID Series to integrate discreetly into historically sensitive environments while delivering consistent, high-quality audio coverage.

This project highlights how careful system design and well-chosen technology can enhance heritage venues, to support modern performance requirements while preserving their unique architectural character.

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