The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland has integrated Epson’s interchangeable lens laser projectors across its six performance venues, supporting more than 1,200 events annually. As a hub for artistic innovation, The Clarice requires projection solutions that adapt to a range of performances, from operas and immersive media courses to large-scale festivals. Epson’s versatile projector lineup has proven essential in meeting these demands.
“Our team handles all the tech in-house, and I’m a big fan of Epson’s versatile lineup and wide range of lens options,” said Zach Rupp, projections coordinator, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. “Every project has its own unique scope of work, and being able to use the same projectors, with lenses that can be used between models, has been crucial. The projectors’ level of adaptability and ability to completely change production with a simple lens swap has been invaluable as we manage so many different types of venues and events.”
The Clarice utilizes Epson projectors in diverse ways, including nine projectors for an opera production with projected subtitles, students engaging with immersive media design coursework, and 16 projectors transforming the lobby for the annual NextNow Fest. A signature event in the University of Maryland’s Arts for All initiative.
In its 11th year, the annual NextNOW Fest 2024—part of the University of Maryland’s Arts for All initiative—relied on 14 Epson large-venue laser projectors to cover nearly 2,000 square feet in the Grand Pavilion, the central hub of The Clarice. Abstract visuals, marketing content, and a live camera feed illuminated the space, creating a striking, immersive experience.
Lighting up nearly every surface in the multi-level lobby, scenes of abstract free-flowing color and form, to marketing content and a live camera feed took over the space, displaying eye-popping color and exquisite detail that wowed guests upon arrival.
Rupp and his team used Epson’s built-in curved surface mapping tools, blending and stacking techniques, and third-party multi-display software, including WATCHOUT 6 multi-display software, to manage the projection layout. The networked projectors allowed for remote access, while stacking some projectors in Epson’s frames provided increased brightness and redundancy.
“The entryway blew attendees away right from the start,” Rupp said. “It truly set the stage for what to expect at the rest of the festival.”
Epson’s single lens family supports projectors from 6,000 to 20,000 lumens, offering solutions from ultra-short-throw to long-throw applications. The technology enables wide lens shift capabilities, simplifying installations across performance spaces.
As a leader in projection technology, Epson collaborates with equipment rental and staging companies like 4Wall, giving end users greater flexibility. Whether securing a temporary rental or swapping lenses to meet specific projection requirements, this partnership ensures users can adapt to varying needs efficiently.
“4Wall has been a fantastic partner for Epson rentals, allowing us to own what we need and supplement our collection with rentals,” said Jeff Reckeweg, technology shop manager, The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. “Owning and renting within the Epson projector and interchangeable lens ecosystem has been both convenient and cost-effective.”
With Epson’s adaptable projection technology, The Clarice continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling, enhancing productions for both audiences and students year-round.
“At Epson, we prioritize outstanding image quality and reliability while offering tools that make projector installations easier,” said Ramzi Shakra, senior product manager, Epson America, Inc. “The feedback we receive from end users is extremely important to us as it plays a crucial role in shaping our product development and improvements. It’s great to see The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center taking full advantage of Epson’s flexible lineup and versatile lens options.”
