Corum

The Corum Congress Centre – Berlioz Opera required a major lighting upgrade to transition to LED while supporting a diverse programme of concerts, opera, and large-scale corporate events. The brief prioritised silent operation, high colour fidelity, flexibility, and efficient workflow.

Equipped with three auditoriums – Berlioz Opera, Pasteur and Einstein – the solution included 46 x T1 Profiles, 20 x T1 Fresnels, 12 x ESPRITES and 10 x FORTES.

Selected for their low noise, excellent colour mixing and versatility, these luminaires provide a future-proof system that meets the technical and creative demands of these multiple auditoriums and event formats.

The 12 ESPRITES are permanently installed on the advanced catwalk of the 1995-capacity Berlioz Opera auditorium. They throw light over a distance of approximately 30 meters to the stage and are used for front and key lighting.

T1 Profiles and Fresnels are utilised across both the Berlioz Opera and Pasteur auditoriums, offering exceptional versatility.

FORTE fixtures add high-intensity capability where required, complementing the overall system with strong output and flexibility.

Additionally, the fixtures’ low noise levels are critical in acoustically sensitive environments, preserving the integrity of performances in a venue renowned for its sound quality.

User acceptance was a significant consideration. Introducing new technology into a venue with a wide range of regular users – including lighting designers, technicians, and visiting productions – was a challenge, requiring a sensitive and gradual approach. Many professionals are accustomed to specific lighting characteristics, particularly in terms of colour and dimming behaviour.

These challenges were addressed through a rigorous evaluation process. Multiple brands were tested, technical riders were analysed, and feedback was gathered from regular users to ensure the chosen fixtures met real-world expectations.

The implementation was phased, allowing users to adapt progressively to the new fixtures whilst maintaining continuity of operations, and this strategic and inclusive approach ensured a successful transition with minimal disruption.

This project exemplifies how a complex, multi-purpose venue can successfully modernise its technical infrastructure while enhancing both performance quality and operational efficiency.

The arrival of the Robe fixtures has greatly improved how shows and events are lit, as well as the turnaround times between different configurations. Lights no longer need to be dismantled and moved – only the scenery and staging elements are adjusted.

Christophe Mora, lighting manager at Corum, has been using Robe products since 2007, both in France and abroad, and appreciates their quality and functionality.

Following the installation of the T1 at Berlioz Opera, several other major opera houses in France followed suit, including the Royal Opera of Versailles and the renowned Opéra Bastille in Paris, both of which have also invested in Robe lighting.

By balancing innovation, practicality and performance excellence, this project sets a benchmark for modern venue upgrades, making it a highly deserving candidate for a MONDO-DR Award.