Training will be hands on, with no more than two people per console, and space for only ten percourse. This is in addition to courses which run throughout the year, offering technical training in how to set up, operate and repair all ETC's products.
Day one introduces users to Congo and Congo jr, covering all the majorfunctions and allowing them to navigate the console and to program bothfixed and moving lights, including creating dynamic effects. The second dayfocuses on the software, editing and using multiple sequence lists.
The Playhouse at Gypsy Corner, as the demo theatre is known, is the stunningfoyer of ETC's new offices in Acton, west London, which is set up with acomplete theatrical lighting rig. Trainees can learn how to use all ETC'sproducts, as well as program popular automated luminaires from othermanufacturers.
In addition, a full Electro-Voice PA system has recently been supplied byShuttle Sound, so that larger lectures and meetings can be held in thespace.
Tech service manager Steve Wiltshire says: "We've only recently moved intothis building, and are delighted that we're already able to hold training onup to five different consoles simultaneously. Our aim is to kit the demotheatre with all the equipment people would use in real life, so we evenhave a wiring board to teach how all the consoles, dimming systems andlights work together and how they are wired up."
The Playhouse will also be the location for the annual ETC/ABTT Christmasparty on 15 December, normally held in the crypt at St Martin in theFields.
(Chris Henry)
