Barco Auro 11.1 immersive sound is quickly gaining ground across the world, and the latest region to succumb to its unique features is the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). In Kirgizstan, cinema service provider Kinoforum (a subsidiary of Barco partner Seoul Incorporate) is installing the system in its brand-new preview theater. The inauguration ceremony took place on 10 October, in the presence of industry leaders and politicians.
Understanding technology needs
With the opening ceremony of its preview theater – which features 250 seats including 50 VIP seats, a 12-meter-wide screen and a Barco digital cinema projector – Kinoforum honors its memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Film and Culture. This MoU is aimed at encouraging the introduction of new technologies to the national cinema industry. “Thanks to this government collaboration, we are able to provide exhibitors in Kyrgyzstan, and the CIS by expansion, with cutting-edge equipment to amaze their audiences,” comments Hyunsoo Kim, Kinoforum’s founder and president.
Designed along three axes
Unlike conventional 5.1 surround sound systems, the Barco Auro 11.1 sound system is designed along three axes: width, depth, and height. “Kinoforum’s advanced preview theater is the perfect environment to experience this innovative technology for the first time,” Kim added.
Seizing opportunities
On 10 October, the preview theater was officially inaugurated. The preview theater is located in the National Library of Kyrgyzstan, also known as the cultural heart of the country. The National Library houses most foreign cultural councils (Britain, Russia, Turkey, China and Korea). Guests included Bektenaliev Muktaliev, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Film and Culture, Isarberov Ulan, Vice President of the Kyrgyz film council, Jyldyz Bakashova, Director of the National Library of Kyrgyz Republic, Kerimova Gulmira, President of Kyrgyzfilm (The national film studio of the Kyrgyzstan republic), and Kanybek Osmonaliev, chairman of the Education, Science, Culture and Sports committee in the Kyrgyz Parliament and ambassadors and counsellors from different European, Arabian and Asian countries. At this event with about 100 VIPs, Barco also showcased its wireless presentation system ClickShare for the first time in the CIS countries.
An exciting new sound
“With the first Barco Auro 11.1 installation in Kyrgyzstan and another 16 in Russia, the CIS countries are clearly ready for an exciting, new sound,” says Dongkyu Lee, Digital Cinema Division manager at Barco Ltd. Korea. “Obviously, we are delighted to see the format spread across the world. We are convinced that Barco Auro 11.1 will provide movie aficionados in Kyrgyzstan and beyond with an unparalleled experience.”