Benzinga | Nov 9, 2021 11:08AM EST

Evolv Technology Reports Partnership With Butler University To Improve Arts Experience, No Terms Disclosed

With Evolv Express, the Clowes Memorial Hall has eliminated 30-minute queues and improved security

WALTHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Evolv Technology (NASDAQ:EVLV), the leader in weapons detection security screening, today announced a partnership with Butler University. The NCAA Division I school has chosen Evolv's state-of-the-art Evolv Express(r) screening solution to secure the entrance to Clowes Memorial Hall, the anchor of the Butler Arts & Events Center and improve the experience for patrons attending events.

With 2,148 seats and a history of presenting artists dating back to 1963, Clowes Memorial Hall is once again welcoming patrons back for performances that range from comedies to musicals. Reopening with a more enjoyable experience from entry to ovation was top of mind for Aaron Hurt, executive director of the Butler Arts and Events Center.

"Clowes is about bringing art and culture to central Indiana and helping people celebrate a sense of community," says Aaron Hurt, executive director of the Butler Arts and Events Center. "Evolv allows us to focus on that, rather than worrying about how long it takes to get into the building. Since installing the Evolv system, our patrons are inside and enjoying the theater, concessions and being together -- in no time at all. The experience from before Evolv to now is night and day."

Clowes welcomed its first show back since COVID-19 in September. Prior to re-opening, the University made several updates to the building, focused on improving the Center's patron experience and addressed security concerns. By installing Evolv Express, the lobby size increased by 15 feet, allowing patrons to enjoy theatre amenities after passing through security without invasive bag checks and pat downs.

Evolv Express uses powerful sensor technology with artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volume and speed. Nearly two thousand people turned out for Clowes first performance in 2021, walking straight through the Evolv system without waiting in long lines.

"At Evolv, we strive to enable a safer environment without sacrificing visitor experience," said Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology. "We are thrilled that our technology is enabling Butler University's Clowes Memorial Hall to welcome patrons back safely, with a much more pleasant experience from entry to ovation."

Clowes Memorial Hall is back to full capacity with a full slate of shows, including music, dance, comedy, and more. In a typical year, more than 300,000 people (about half the population of Wyoming) attend events at the center, including students and teachers attending educational matinee performances.

George continued: "The university, along with so many other venues and facilities, is turning to Evolv to facilitate the seamless flow of guests and patrons as they reopen. Once they realize they can deliver a safe and enjoyable experience, it's a game changer for both security personnel and patrons."