Blink’s project manager for the Liberty X tour, Adam Walton, worked in close consultation with lighting designer Jvan Morandi. Morandi is extremely specific about the look and style of all the shows on which he works and used a High End Catalyst video system as an integral part of the show’s visual aspect. Morandi and Walton chose an innovative format for Blink TV, with two Fast-fold video screens onstage for the opening and support band slots, onto which the Blink programmes could also be projected. Aesthetically, this has resulted in the screens taking on a far more ‘involved’ and integrated role than if they had occupied the traditional side-stage positions.
Having the screens mid-stage has also enabled the Blink package to offer the four opening acts the facility of utilizing them for their own video material and logos during their performances. The main show sources are all stored in Morandi’s Mac G4 and projected via two Barco G5s onto three inflatable rear screens. The projections produce spectacular liquid effects, texturing and undulating colour swirls when combined with Morandi’s dynamic lighting cues.
All video equipment was supplied to Blink by rental house PSL. Blink’s technician on the tour is Pete Gibbs, who looks after the two Beta machines that are used in combination with the Catalyst for the support slot videos, mixed via a Magic DaVE. Two additional Barco G5s are supplied for the support band video.
(Lee Baldock)
