Marcus Theatres, a division of The Marcus Corp. in Milwaukee, today announced that the new CaptiView Closed Caption Viewing Systems and Fidelio Descriptive Audio Systems are now available at virtually all of its digital cinema locations throughout the Midwest.
The innovative technology developed by Doremi Cinema allows hearing and visually impaired filmgoers to see most movies from any seat in the auditorium. The new technology enhancements are a result of the company’s large-scale digital cinema rollout completed in September 2011.
“We are extremely pleased we can offer a memorable moviegoing experience to all of our patrons. The new closed-caption viewing system and audio system will allow hearing-impaired and visually-impaired guests to be able to see and hear the latest blockbusters from any seat in the theatre. Plus the system is easy and efficient to use,” said Bruce Olson, president of Marcus Theatres.
For deaf and hard of hearing guests, the CaptiView system transmits encrypted closed captions to a small, easy-to-read screen that displays the dialogue. The screen is attached to a bendable support arm that securely fits in the chair’s cup holder. It can be easily adjusted and positioned directly in front of the guest and the device features a privacy visor to prevent distractions to others in the theatre. The Fidelio system provides either descriptive audio for visually impaired guests or audio from the movie for guests who need to adjust the volume. The convenient wireless audio system consists of a compact audio receiver and headset.
Olson said captioning and descriptive audio will be available on most, but not all motion pictures.
“Studios must add the captions and descriptive audio to the digital content that they provide to theatres, but the adjustable volume feature is available in all auditoriums for showings. There is no charge to use these systems. Our guests can simply ask for the devices at the box office. Marcus Theatres has been a leader in providing captioning and adjustable volume headsets in our theatres for over 20 years. These new innovative technologies continue our company’s strong commitment to providing the best moviegoing experience for all our guests,” Olson said.
