Niagara Parks Power Station
For over a century, the former Canadian Niagara Power generating station harnessed the powerful energy of Horseshoe Falls, turning it into a great source of electricity. Since being retired from active duty, this pioneering hydropower project now serves as an educational destination, highlighting both its remarkable history and unique architectural features.
As part of Niagara Parks’ recovery initiatives relating to the pandemic and to help reinvigorate the local tourism industry, Currents, a new attraction, was created at the station. Described as “an epic sight and sound night show inside the heart of the plant,” Currents features immersive, interactive media, including projected effects that react to the presence of visitors, culminating in a singular sensory experience that “reawakens the machinery of this iconic plant through imagery, color, lights, sound, and a breathtaking musical score.”
SOLUTION
An audio solution with a high SPL and very low visibility factor was required for the project, as the front scenic zone is also a projection mapping surface. An array system to minimize the floor and ceiling audio reflection was also needed. Working with Thinkwell Studio Montreal, a global design and production agency creating custom, content driven experiences in the physical world, it was determined that Biamp’s Desono line was the ideal choice for the scenic/ projection mapping integration and sound coverage.
Conclusion
The Niagara Parks Commission was extremely pleased with Currents in its final form, a vision in which Desono speakers played a central role. Through the utilization of Desono E Series, the sound design serves to anchor the multimedia experience overall. The result is a completely singular attraction, bringing new life to a landmark of Niagara Falls’ past.