In the hills near Lewes in England, Glyndebourne opera house is a landmark of cultural and artistic excellence. Renowned for its annual summer festival, which attracts upwards of 150,000 visitors, Glyndebourne combines operatic tradition with cutting-edge production technology. Behind the scenes, communication is critical, and Glyndebourne recently upgraded its systems to include PunQtum IP-based communication solutions.
‘Our communication system serves all production departments, from followspots to automation, wardrobe and chaperones,’ explains Head of Sound and Video, Jonathan Moss. ‘We needed a mix of products that could address all user needs while enhancing operational flexibility and future-proofing our technical infrastructure. PunQtum provides advanced features and simple communication without compromising quality or flexibility, making it an ideal addition for our diverse production needs.’
Unlike the traditional two-wire intercom systems or two-way radios the venue previously used, the PunQtum digital partyline solution offers network-based flexibility that extends communication capabilities across the entire site.
Glyndebourne already employs Riedel’s Artist-1024 intercom matrix, which allows point-to-point and complex intercom configurations and works with the Bolero Wireless Intercom. Integrated into Bolero, PunQtum extends this system and ensures that all departments are connected.
‘PunQtum works perfectly as a standalone solution, but also integrates smoothly with our existing Riedel Bolero and in this way complements our Artist systems,’ Moss elaborates. ‘This combination allows us to meet the needs of different departments while ensuring cost-effectiveness where fewer circuits are required. The network-based deployment ensures we can reach every corner of the building without additional infrastructure.’
For stage management, lighting and other technical teams, the PunQtum system has been transformative: ‘Everyone working in the stage area relies on it, from lighting and stage technicians to wardrobe,’ says Stage Manager, Ben Sedgwick. ‘During rehearsals and performances, it’s crucial for communication between the stage and FOH teams, ensuring smooth transitions and precise coordination. PunQtum delivers clear, direct communication that keeps everything running efficiently.’
PunQtum’s appeal lies not only in its technical capabilities but also in its user-friendly design. The system was designed to be intuitive and ready to use with minimal training. It connects to existing IP infrastructures and provides a familiar interface, ensuring that users across various departments can adopt it quickly without a steep learning curve.
‘The usability of the belt packs is fantastic,’ Moss says. ‘Even staff who aren’t familiar with communication systems find them intuitive, and we’ve never had complaints. It’s an incredibly reliable, value-for-money solution that has improved how we operate.’
Another advantage is the customer support provided by Riedel, which Glyndebourne has valued throughout the long-standing partnership between the two operations. ‘Whenever we need assistance, Riedel is always there,’ Moss says. ‘Their support has been consistently excellent, giving us confidence in our decision to extend their solutions to include PunQtum.’
PunQtum is now one of the cornerstones of the venue’s evolving communication strategy. By addressing the needs of departments requiring straightforward partyline communication and integrating with more complex intercom set-ups, PunQtum delivers a reliable, innovative solution that enhances both operational efficiency and creative flexibility. As Glyndebourne continues to push the boundaries of operatic excellence, PunQtum maintains the backstage harmony behind every performance.
More: https://punqtum.com
