Siemens and Bavarian State Opera Launch Digital Twin for National Theater Acoustics

In a groundbreaking initiative, Siemens AG and the Bavarian State Opera have collaborated to develop a digital twin of the National Theater in Munich, Germany. Announced on June 26, 2025, this innovative project aims to enhance the theater's acoustics through advanced digital technology, allowing for a realistic simulation of sound effects and orchestral arrangements even before live performances commence.

The digital twin technology employed by Siemens utilizes a 3D acoustic model that simulates various configurations of the concert hall, enabling conductors and musicians to assess acoustics prior to rehearsals. This system allows for changes in stage setups and audience placements, thereby optimizing the auditory experience for diverse performances. As stated by Serge Dorny, General Director of the Bavarian State Opera, "Siemens and the Bavarian State Opera share a long-standing, trust-based partnership marked by a common pursuit of excellence and innovation. We’re looking forward to the new perspectives that our digital strategy will create."

The initiative is part of a broader trend toward digitalization in the arts, as highlighted by Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program. He noted, "The idea for the Sound of Science application was spawned by the trend toward increasingly shorter rehearsal times and rising concert logistics costs. Our simulation of realistic stage productions enables theater professionals to plan much more precisely in advance, while giving audiences a preliminary impression of the acoustic conditions."

The technology, dubbed the Sound of Science, allows for virtual reality testing of different acoustic scenarios using VR goggles, which can be utilized remotely. This aspect of the project is particularly significant in the context of modern constraints on live performances, where logistical complications can often hinder preparation. Siemens has already showcased this technology at the Salzburg Festival in 2024 and is now enhancing its application for the National Theater.

A notable feature of the Sound of Science application is its ability to integrate live vocal performances into the simulations, providing a comprehensive assessment of acoustic quality. For the first time, a vocal part sung by soprano Emilie Sierra, accompanied by the Bavarian State Orchestra, has been integrated, offering a more accurate representation of sound dynamics.

The underlying technology for this application is part of Siemens' Simcenter portfolio, which has been integral to the company's operations for over 15 years. Jean-Claude Ercolanelli, Senior Vice President for Simulation and Test Solutions at Siemens, remarked on the transformative potential of digital twin technology, stating, "The benefits extend well beyond the concert hall, offering cost reduction, resource optimization, time savings, and enhanced decision-making."

Although there are currently no plans to commercialize the Sound of Science application, Siemens is providing it free of charge to selected partners in the international cultural sector. With the Munich Opera Festival approaching, the updated version includes new configurations and acoustic scenarios, aiming to elevate the performance experience for both artists and audiences alike.

This move not only signifies a technological advancement in the performing arts but also reflects a growing recognition of the importance of acoustics in enhancing the cultural landscape. The collaboration between Siemens and the Bavarian State Opera stands as a testament to the innovative spirit driving the intersection of technology and the arts, paving the way for future developments in digital performance environments.