HALSTEAD’S historic Empire Theatre is moving into the 21st century by using hi-tech satellite technology to beam live shows from around the globe on to its big screen.

The theatre has been at the heart of the town’s entertainment scene since it opened in 1915 and prides itself in its history.

But the 300-seater venue is now taking steps into what could be the future of watching live concerts by installing a satellite system which can stream music shows and productions direct to the theatre from all over the world

The first will take place later this month when Andre Rieu’s Shall We Dance? is beamed live from Maastricht.

Mike George, Empire Theatre Trust vice chairman, said: “We feel the time is right to venture into this area as it is another way of bringing visual and sound entertainment to theatre via the medium of satellite.

“It helps us expand the range of events we offer – bringing theatre, ballet and opera concerts from all around the world to the town.”

Other concerts due to be streamed by the theatre include Mozart’s mystical comedy the Magic Flute, which will actually be taking place at world-famous Glyndebourne in Sussex, as well as a special 50th anniversary performance from powerhouse vocalist Placido Domingo streamed from the Arena Di Verona in Italy.

The ability to stream live shows will give fans the chance to experience artists and shows they wouldn’t usually get to see.

Mr George said: “It will widen the opportunity to see and hear concerts that the audience would never normally see as they are broadcast from all over this country and the world.

“It also means that the need to travel is reduced if you can see events locally, thus reducing carbon footprints and hopefully giving people the opportunity to open their eyes to a new experience and discover something they may not have tried before.”

For more information about shows visit empire-theatre.co.uk.