THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO ~~~~~ November 12, 2020 (LSN) A new sound system for patrons with hearing loss will debut during Magnus Theatre’s production of The Drowning Girls. Though common in various venues in larger cities across Canada and internationally, the induction loop system is the first of its kind to be used in Thunder Bay. The project was supported by a generous grant from the Thunder Bay Community Foundation.
The induction loop hearing assist system works in conjunction with telecoil-equipped hearing aids or cochlear implants to enable persons who use those devices to enjoy a clearer sound.
A signal is transmitted to the assistive devices through a wire that is connected to the sound source and circles the room. The sound is then transmitted directly to the listening device electromagnetically.
“Many of our patrons use hearing aids, and we identified a need for improved listening technology based on patron feedback. The production team installed the hearing loop in the auditorium, and we tested it during the run of one of last season’s productions. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with everyone surveyed reporting a drastically improved audio experience – and it’s very easy for patrons to use,” says Magnus Theatre Front of House Manager Jerron Fuchihara.
Anyone with a compatible device can take advantage of the system simply by activating their switch to the T-coil program. Since the sound is transmitted directly into the device, background noises are eliminated, enhancing sound quality for the listener.
Most hearing aids and cochlear implants currently in use in Canada are already equipped with T-coils, the small copper coil that functions as a wireless antenna. Those with incompatible devices can still benefit from the system by using a portable receiver with their own earbuds or a borrowed headset. The Magnus Theatre Box Office has several of these units to lend for use during a performance.
For more information about the hearing loop system, please visit www.magnustheatre.com/assisted-hearing-loop-system.
The Drowning Girls runs at Magnus Theatre from November 12th to 28th. Tickets are available online at www.magnustheatre.com, by phone at 807.345.5552, or in person from the Magnus Theatre Box Office located at 10 South Algoma Street.
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