After being closed for 20 years, one of the most famous and beautiful movie theatres in Antwerp re-opened its doors last spring.

The renowned theatre company Rataplan Foundation have totally restored this 1200-seat monument to its original state. However, this time around they left out the seats and instead turned it into a multi-functional concert hall, with a capacity of 2000. In a short space of time, Rataplan have done a spectacular job, although it will be a further three years before Roma has its 500-seat balcony back in its original state.

The entire renovation was financed by Rataplan, supported by donations, with more than 100 people volunteering to assist with the rebuilding programme.

Pieter Nys, of Antwerp sound hire company D-Rent, undertook the technical element of the project, designing and supplying the sound and light system. Depending on the type of production, D-Rent will deploy the Martin Audio W8L Line Array or Wavefront W8C, with WT2 infill and WSX subs.

Together with Steve Kemland of Ampco Belgium and Geert de Wit (FOH engineer), an acoustic concept was designed using the new ‘Shark bass creator’ and a TiMax imagemaker.

On the grand re-opening night, the W8LC Compact Line Array was showcased to the audience and various sound hire companies. It was a dream come true for many of Antwerp’s citizens, the magic of the venue and the brilliant sound of the W8LC system making this an unforgettable night.