Lighting up The Adventures of Pinocchio
- Details
The Little Theatre by the Park in Chesham played home to the dark family fable for 19 shows throughout December, boasting West End-worthy lighting designs and a small but talented cast. At the heart of the lighting rig were four Chauvet DJ Intimidator hybrids, six Chauvet Professional Q-Wash 436Zs, four Rogue R2 Spots and eight ETC Source 4 Junior fixtures that were evenly positioned around the circular stage.
Both Rogue R2 Spots and Intimidator hybrids were chosen for their versatility and together created an impressive variety of looks on stage. “As the R2 Spots have two colour wheels, the possible combinations are almost endless” said Andy Friedli, lighting designer. “By choosing to deploy the Rogue’s we were able to convey the moods of each scene easily and effectively”.
In addition to the main lighting rig, an ETC Source 4 Mini was positioned downstage centre to act as a spotlight for the star of the show, Pinocchio. Created by Sam Parker (puppeteer for War Horse), Pinocchio was bought to life by two of his own puppetees.
Not only was the stage constantly endowed with vibrant colours, the performance had its fair share of dramatic lighting effects to help tell the tale too. ETC Source 4 Juniors partnered with a Rosco 86675 Comedia gobo, covered the stage in a mesmerising stained-glass window effect for Cathedral scenes and a touch of magic was added with Laserworld’s CS1000-MKII to symbolise the Lady with Indigo Hair and her mystical powers. ADJ Dotz and a Le Maitre MVS Hazer were also used to create a roaring fire effect.
Harmonising playful and at times rather sinister looks, the design created by Friedli reinforced the message of the performance and complimented both the music and cast.
(Jim Evans)
