The Ironbridge (built 1779) was illuminated to create a dynamic and constant cycle of colour and produce stunning reflections in the water below. The effect was created by using four 8Kw space cannons (EMF Technology), 24 Varilite VL2000 Wash lights (12 either side of the bridge), six City Colours and 16 outdoor Par64s.
An LED wall at the north end of the bridge displayed images of some of the lesser known local sites and public information messages. Subtle changes in colour were achieved using the full CMY colour mixing space cannons and Varilite VL2000s, all controlled by an Avolites Pearl lighting console. Tim Routledge was commissioned by Stage Electrics to light the event fresh from his role as associate lighting designer for the London handover at the Beijing Olympics.
The remains of Bedlam Furnaces, located on the banks of the River Severn, were illuminated to give the illusion that they were burning as they did over 250 years ago. Built in the 1750's, these blast furnaces were used to make the components of the Ironbridge.
Stage Electrics had the challenging task of recreating the famous 1801 painting Coalbrookdale by Night by Philip de Loutherberg of Bedlam Furnaces in action. Their remains were brought to life with recreated industrial sounds, hammering metal and the sound of bellows played on a sound scape.
Smoke effects were created using a combination of Martin Jem ZR33 smoke machines and unique hazers. In addition a combination of HMI and HQI fixtures were used. The orange and red flame effects for the burning furnace were created using Safex FlameJettts - a new product to Stage Electrics hire portfolio, which uses gas canisters to produce live flame effects from either a hand remote or via DMX control. All atmospheric effects of the furnace in action were controlled by an Avolites Pearl 2008 lighting console.
The grounds of the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron hosted a main stage and series of live performances, lighting and firework displays. Staging was provided by Impact Production with a Prolyte MPT roof. On gauze at the back of the stage a bespoke video was displayed. The video's production was managed by Stage Electrics in association with key partner, The Giggle Group.
Stage Electrics' technical project manager for the event, Robin Barton comments, "The project required careful planning and management to ensure that all of the sites were completed safely, on time and to the highest standard. Working around historic monuments always requires extra care, especially on sites as significant to our industrial heritage as those in the Ironbridge Gorge."
(Jim Evans)
