The Mandurah Performing Arts Centre (ManPAC) in Australia, which presents arts and cultural experiences, is utilizing a Pliant Technologies MicroCom XR digital wireless intercom system to provide production staff — directed by Head of Staging Ciaron McCormack — with dependable communications during events hosted at the venue.
“As head of staging, it’s my responsibility to make sure everything is organized for our clients so that their production runs as smoothly as possible, both on and off the stage,” says McCormack. “Pliant’s MicroCom XR, paired with the brand’s SmartBoom headsets, allows me to provide the crew with the tools they need for clear communication between the front of house and backstage areas.”
At ManPAC, the wireless users of its eight MicroCom XR packs include the audio and lighting operators, stage manager, flyman, mechanist, follow spot operator, front of house manager, and bar manager. MicroCom XR helps to ensure that all aspects of a production are executed as planned, with a coverage zone that reaches from backstage to front of house and beyond.
“The lightweight, compact design of the MicroCom XR beltpacks immediately stood out to me, as it seamlessly clips on to staff members’ clothing without being bulky or getting in the way while they move around the theatre,” McCormack notes. “Plus, it’s super easy to use and the price was fantastic compared to other products.”
He also cites the flip-up microphone muting option on the SmartBoom headsets to be a benefit to the production workflow. “There’s a lot to like about MicroCom XR, but the talk/mute function built into the SmartBoom headset was a selling point for us,” he concludes. “With their exceptional audio quality, the headsets pair perfectly with the caliber of the intercom. It’s so easy to just flip up the boom arm when you want to mute yourself, and then flip it back down when you’re ready to talk — it helps us to be even more efficient in our flow of communication. Thanks to Pliant’s MicroCom, we can continue to put on the exceptional performance quality that the Mandurah community knows us for.”
