Production Arts – Unit 65: Technical Stage Operations

Joe Roberts

Distinction criteria – Explain the uses and operation of different types of lighting, sound and video equipment.

VIDEO!!!!!

Long throw projector

Video projection

Long throw projects are used for long distances. It has several inputs which are 2 VGA inputs (Video Graphics Array) which goes from the PC to the projector, HD, DVD, USB, sound input, phono input and a video recorder input. Although this projector can go long it could be pixelated. In shows they are normally used in front of the stage to project an image on the screen at the back. However the issue with this is that actors on stage may get in the way. So a way to get around this is place the projector behind the stage and then flip the image so the actors aren’t in the way. Also a long throw projector is discrete because it can be used from long distances, this is an advantage when using it in a performance.

Video projection allows us to change the time of day and create an ambience without changing the set.

Short throw projector

Video projection

The short throw projector has all the same inputs as a long throw projector but instead of using a lens to project the image, the image is projected on to a mirror which then reflects the image. In comparison to a long throw projector the short throw project can be used in confined spaces for example backstage where space is limited. The image is inverted so when the audience look at it the image appears the right way But it isn’t as discrete as a long throw projector which prevents it from being used in the rig whilst a long throw projector can be used in the rig and behind the audience.

Video projection allows us to change the time of day and create an ambience without changing the set.

Matrox

iMac

Qlab

Matrox

Projector

Projector

Projector

Stage

Matrox is used in cooperation with Qlab and 1 Matrox box has 3 outputs. Matrox can either play 3 images on each projector or stretch 1 image across 3 projectors. It is used for playing videos during performances and it is used for a individual projection or used to project one large projection. I would use a matrox when I wanted a video of a scene to play through the show, e.g the sunrise/sunset , I would play a video on Qlab of a video which has filmed the sun through the day and stretch the video using 3 projectors.

Qlab Qlab is an industry standard piece of software (only on a

mac). It is cueing software, not media creation. It allows you to playback music, sound fx, soundscapes and also it can send a go to a lighting desk. You can play things on cue, and fade up and fade down tracks. Therefore you can create show lists.

When creating