Stage rigging is a vital part of venue design, no matter what the event is. The rigging can literally make or break the show, it serves as the gear box which animates the cohesive art of the theater itself. It is a very complex set up and most can do with a helpful tip or two to make the job that little bit easier. Hopefully this article will provide a few useful and convenient stage rigging tips.
For stage lighting the most important thing is planning. This does not mean a few days before the show hang up a few lights, no. In order to do this job properly you must start preparing many weeks in advance. Be sure you start by making a list of the necessary materials. Be sure that you prepare for at least more lights than you need. Also test the stage, figure out what kind of lights will create what kind of atmosphere and when.
In preparation for the show, both for safety and performance, go over you work. The complex criss-cross of counterweights leaves a lot of room for mistakes. However, if you go over every hook and tie everything should be alright. The worst things would be for something to go wrong during the show resulting in injury. Spend a little extra time and don’t let that happen.
Team work comes into play and moreover is an integral part to the overall performance of the show. In every team there are certain players, and the only way to get the unit to work as a whole is by strong communication skills. The longer you work together the stronger the bond will be. The stage rigging must be though of as clock work with one gear affecting another all the way across the stage.
The next very important thing is to make sure that the machinery is not sub par. If a chain breaks of a tie snaps the result can ruin the show, let alone be extremely dangerous. Regularly replace bulbs, test weights, and keep things moving. If things are too static the equipment may atrophy.
This are general tips, but are not to be overlooked. The obvious things are often ignored and it comes back to haunt the show. With a bit of structure and discipline an immaculate show is possible, all down to the stage rigging.
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