Front & Center
SUPERIOR SOUND AT THE MUSIC HALL
The audio experience at the Music Hall has improved greatly over the past several years as a result of our massive investment in new and supplemental speakers and audio processing systems. We confidently stack up the in-house sound system in the Music Hall against any other in city.
However, in a large venue like the Music Hall, the audio experience can vary a bit for each show due to touring equipment that gets installed by each respective company.
NEW THIS SEASON
We are excited to introduce an optional audio enhancement system beginning this season. Called Front & Center, this patented FM-based audio delivery system passes the music, singing, and spoken dialogue through a specially designed processor which delivers it directly to your ears through specially designed headsets.
The combination of the ambient sound (through the tour and venue speakers) and the direct-delivery sound (through a headset) will allow you to hear in a more surround sound fashion.
Why theatergoers are excited:
- Immersive experience — 85% of test audiences reported feeling “closer to the stage”
- Psychoacoustics working for you — reduced listening effort, freeing your brain to better enjoy the acting, expressions, color, lighting, and story
- Proven at Broadway Dallas — rave feedback from real patrons; independently evaluated by university researchers
MUSIC HALL TESTIMONIALS
“I really enjoyed the listening device. Crazy, but I felt like I could see clearer and sharper too!” – Jill Renfro
“The device made both music and voice more crisp” – Kerry Anderson
AVAILABLE NOW
Easy to use:
Purchase online → pick up your headset in the lobby before your first show → return after curtain call.
Front & Center is available to Broadway Dallas subscriber only on a season-long basis.
This new technology is available now for only $99 for the entire season at the Music Hall. You get your own, personal headset to bring to the Music Hall for each show. When you arrive at the Music Hall, you will access a dedicated, express Front and Center check-in desk where you will receive a fully-charge receiver.
Front and Center™ FAQs
About Front and Center
Q: What is Front and Center?
A new patented listening system that delivers crystal-clear dialogue and balanced sound so you can enjoy virtually every word and note of the performance.
Q: Who is Front and Center designed for?
Anyone who wants an enhanced theater experience.
Q: Do I need to be hard of hearing to use it?
Absolutely not! Many patrons use it to improve their theater experience, reduce listening fatigue, and feel closer to the performance.
What You’ll Experience
Q: What might I notice when using Front and Center?
- In a recent survey by Broadway Dallas of over 150 randomly selected patrons attending a diverse mix of three shows analyzed by university professionals, 85% of the patrons reported feeling “closer to the stage,” even from the balcony. (This and other psychological benefits will vary from person to person and show to show.)
- Dialogue may feel easier to follow, with voices standing out clearly.
- Music may sound more balanced—rich, but not overwhelming.
- You may feel more relaxed, since you’re not straining to hear.
- For long shows, the experience may feel less tiring and more enjoyable.
Using Front and Center
Q: How do I get started?
Enroll for the service, currently being offered on a subscription basis for the 25-26 Broadway season shows at the Music Hall. You will first receive a new headset—yours to keep.
Q: How do I start using the headset?
Place the headphones on as shown in the instructions, ensure the cord is untangled, and increase volume slowly until the sound feels comfortable. Then turn it up to a moderate level for about 30 seconds to allow your brain to ‘train’ to the sound. After that, turn back down to a comfortable level and clear dialogue.
Q: How do I adjust the volume?
Use the clearly marked up/down controls on the receiver. See Quick start instructions.
Can I still hear the live sound in the theater?
Yes. Front and Center balances enhanced dialogue with the natural acoustics, so you enjoy both and stay in touch with your seatmate.
Comfort & Accessibility
Q: Are the headsets comfortable for long performances?
Yes. They are lightweight with padded earpieces and a self-adjusting headband.
Q: Can I bring my own headphones?
We recommend using only our headset. We cannot accept any responsibility or predict performance if you use another headset.
Checkout & Return
Q: Do I need an ID or a deposit to use Front and Center?
No deposit is required. Enjoy our express service at the Front and Center service desk. Remember, you will have subscribed in advance and will have your personal headset, which we have provided to subscribers, significantly reducing access time. Just show your ID and pick up a receiver (half the size of a cell phone), and you are all set. Just be sure to return the receiver following the show. Your subscription is valid for the entire Broadway season at the Music Hall, and you need to renew each season.
Q: What happens if I forget to return the receiver?
Return it to the designated booth before leaving. If you accidentally take it home, please contact the venue promptly to arrange a return.
Q: What if the device doesn’t work when I sit down?
Return immediately to the Front and Center service desk for a replacement receiver or headset. Bring both your headset and receiver.
Troubleshooting
Q: I can’t hear anything. What should I do?
- Check that the volume is turned up.
- Ensure the headphones are securely plugged into the receiver.
- If the problem persists, return to the service desk with your headset and receiver.
Q: The sound is distorted or too loud.
Lower the volume. If distortion continues, return to the service desk with your headset and receiver.
Q: What if my headset feels uncomfortable?
Adjust the headband or request an alternative headset style (if available).
Questions and Feedback
Q: Who do I contact with questions after the show?
Visit the Front & Center service desk. We’ll be glad to help!
Q: What if I have feedback about my experience?
We welcome it! Share your thoughts with the service desk.
Q: Can children use Front and Center?
Yes, with adult supervision. Volume should be adjusted carefully for younger users.
Q: What if I have medical concerns?
If you use a pacemaker, hearing device, or other medical equipment, consult your doctor or audiologist before use.
ADDITIONAL INFO
As in prior seasons, complimentary HEAR US NOW assisted listening devices will be available at all performances at the Music Hall in compliance with ADA requirements. The Front & Center system is not in use at the Winspear Opera House. Please see our website terms and conditions for additional important details.
front & Center user TERMS AND CONDITIONS
I understand and acknowledge that I have sole control over the Front & CenterTM device that I wish to use. I agree to never adjust the sound level of the device to an uncomfortably loud level setting. From the default low sound level setting, I will adjust to the point where dialog is clear and comfortable. I understand and acknowledge that it may take me a short while to get used to the sound’s level control, which is a combination clarity/loudness control, to an optimum level for me.
1. The headset provided with the Front & CenterTM device shall be used only with the provided Front & CenterTM receiver. My use of the headset with any other receiver or other system voids the limited warranty of the Front & CenterTM device and voids any potential liability of the manufacturer. I understand and acknowledge that replacement of the Front & CenterTM headset due to loss or damage due to my usage is $40.00 per unit. The Manufacturer provides a limited warranty that the Front & CenterTM headset shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of 90 days from date of receipt. Such limited warranty is provided in lieu of any other express or implied warranties, including without limitation implied warranties of merchantability or of fitness for a particular purpose. By using the Front & CenterTM system, I agree and acknowledge that affiliated manufacturers, resellers, service providers and distributors shall not be liable for any damages resulting from incorrect usage or any other damage through no fault of the design or proper operation of the approved Front & CenterTM receiver system and headset.
2. If a Front & CenterTM receiver is lost, damaged, tampered with, or not returned promptly after the performance for which the receiver is used, I will be liable for replacement charges of $250.00. The receiver provided shall be used only with the provided headset or other Front & Center approved connective device.
3. For safety purposes, before using the Front & CenterTM device with an implantable device, streamer, medical or other connective audio device, I agree and acknowledge that I will consult with my physician or audiologist for approval and connectivity options. Upon receiving such professional medical advice, I will then contact the facility to arrange for the connectivity of the Front & CenterTM device.
4. For maximum clarity and adherence to the sound designer’s design, Front & CenterTM utilizes, via the theater infrastructure, a direct connection to the facility’s audio mixing console. I acknowledge that Front & Center and its agents cannot be responsible for a failure in the ‘upstream path’, associated equipment, artistic design on purpose, or mixing that results in loss of sound or less than optimum clarity of house or Front & Center sound. I also acknowledge that Front & Center will not be liable for acts of God, pandemics or epidemics, nor will Front & Center be liable for consequential, punitive or similar exemplary damages as a result of my use of any Front & CenterTM device.
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