Tips for Upgrading Your Auditorium Lighting

Tips for Upgrading Your Auditorium Lighting

Sep 26, 2024 | Equipment, Lighting, Sales, Systems, Visual

In the world of auditorium performances and events, lighting is not just functional—it’s transformative. It sets the tone, directs attention, and enhances the overall aesthetic of any production. Understanding the importance of lighting is key to ensuring every performance is viewed in the best light possible. At Starlite, we specialize in elevating your auditorium’s lighting to enhance both visibility and ambiance, ensuring that every seat in the house has the perfect view.

 

Assessing Your Current Lighting Setup

Evaluating Existing Lighting

To start, take a critical look at your current lighting. Consider the brightness, the reach of the lights across the auditorium, and whether shadows obscure the view from any angle. Perform tests during various events to see if the current setup meets the diverse visual demands of different performances.

 

If you notice uneven lighting, frequent bulb outages, or an inability to adapt the lighting mood for different shows, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern lighting systems offer greater flexibility and reliability, which can significantly improve both the performer’s and the audience’s experience.

How to Design Lighting for an Auditorium

Latest Trends in Auditorium Lighting

LED Technology

LED lighting is a game-changer for auditoriums, offering unparalleled control over color and intensity with significantly lower energy consumption. Replacing incandescent lighting fixtures will allow you to use significantly fewer fixtures. This combined with the energy efficiency leads to a more cost effective and dynamic lighting installation.

 

Advances in Lighting Control Systems

Lighting control systems have revolutionized in the past few years, architectural systems have more control than ever over more complicated systems. While lighting control consoles have surged forward to have more processing power than ever and are able to control more aspects with ease. Combining these two systems allows non-experts to get the looks that they want with ease and experts the ability create art with light.

 

Innovative Lighting Design Techniques

Using advanced technology such as moving light fixtures allows designers to create any look they may dream of using fewer fixtures. Using these fixtures in combination with your static lights allows for infinite design choices up until the moment the audience enters the space.

 

Choosing the Right Lighting Equipment

Selecting the right fixtures involves more than just choosing lights that look good. Consider the lumens (light output), color temperature, and beam angles to ensure coverage across the entire stageand audience area. We have laid out some commonly used fixture types below:

 

What kind of lights are used in an auditorium?

  • Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlights (ERS): These are versatile and can be used to spotlight areas or create gobo effects.
  • Fresnels: Known for their soft, wide light, they are ideal for washing a scene with color.
  • PARs: These are used for flooding an area with light and use different lenses to achieve different levels of coverage.
  • Followspots: These are used to highlight and follow performers as they move across the stage. They are manually controlled manually from the fixture itself.
  • Moving Heads: These fixtures can move to aim their light anywhere on stage. These come in wash and profile variants. Each have their unique advantages, reach out to your local dealer to learn which is best for your application.
  • Strip Lights and Cyc Lights: Used to light up a cyclorama or large swaths of a set background.

 

Each type of light contributes to the overall design by providing different intensities, colors, and effects, allowing for a fully customizable stage environment.

 

What colors used for stage lighting?

The three primary colors used in stage lighting are red, green, and blue. These fundamental colors can be mixed in various ways to create a wide spectrum of hues, allowing lighting designers to achieve almost any color they desire for dramatic effects, mood setting, and thematic presentations on stage. As technology advances manufacturers are adding more colors to the LEDs to ensure the highest quality of light.

 

How many footcandles are required in an auditorium?

Onstage your light levels will change with the mood of the performance that is happening. In the audience not during show time you are looking for around  10-15 foot-candles. During a production when the house lights are out you should have around 0.2 foot-candles at the floor of the aisles. It’s important to tailor the lighting intensity based on the specific activities and visual requirements of each event held in the auditorium.

 

What is the best lighting for a theater?

The best lighting for a theater typically involves a combination of fixtures:

  • LED ERS, Fresnels and PARs for front lighting and washing the stage.
  • Moving lights for added flexibility and advanced features.
  • Followspots to highlight actors during performances.

 

Integrating these types with appropriate control systems allows for precision and creativity in theatrical lighting, enabling designers to effectively tell a story or convey emotion through lighting.

 

Installation Considerations for Upgrading Auditorium Lighting

Steps for a Successful Installation

Pre-Planning: The first step in a successful lighting installation is a thorough pre-planning phase. This involves assessing the auditorium’s existing layout and infrastructure. Understanding the spatial dimensions, power supply locations, and current lighting setup helps in designing an efficient upgrade plan. It is often best to bring an expert in for this portion as they may notice minute details of your space that could help or hinder in the process.

 

Consultation with Experts: Consulting with lighting designers and engineers is crucial. These professionals bring a wealth of experience and can offer tailored advice on the best types of lighting fixtures and configurations that meet the specific needs of your auditorium.

 

Choosing the Right Equipment: The choice should align with the auditorium’s functional requirements and the types of performances it hosts. Allow the experts to make recommendations when it comes to the right equipment. From manufacturers to which of the many options for each type of light an expert can make sure you are covered.

 

To ensure the upgrade process is as smooth as possible, schedule installations during off-hours or closed seasons. This approach minimizes the impact on scheduled events. Additionally, maintaining clear and open communication with all stakeholders—such as management, technical staff, and event planners—about the timeline and potential impacts is essential.

 

Maximizing the Impact of New Lighting

Using advanced 3D modeling tools can aid in visualizing potential lighting setups before physical installation. This technology allows for experimenting with different angles and heights, helping to determine the optimal placement for achieving the best coverage and visual effects. Investing in programmable lighting systems can also greatly enhance the flexibility of your auditorium lighting. These systems can be adjusted for various event types, whether it’s a lecture, a play, or a concert, providing customizability and ease of use.

Ensuring a Lasting Lighting Solution

To ensure longevity and optimal performance of your new lighting systems, regular cleaning of lenses and fixtures is necessary to maintain brightness and clarity. Additionally, it’s important to check and replace any worn-out wires or connectors to prevent potential hazards and ensure functionality.

 

Establish a routine maintenance schedule based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the specific usage patterns of your auditorium. Training your staff on basic upkeep and troubleshooting techniques is also beneficial, as it enables timely responses to any issues that may arise.

 

By carefully considering these factors and following these guidelines, you can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your auditorium’s lighting. This ensures that every event is not only well-lit but also leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

 

Choosing the Right Partner

Select a provider that offers comprehensive services, from consultation and design to installation and support. Experience, portfolio, and customer reviews are also important. Starlite provides customized lighting solutions with an emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction, backed by a team of experts dedicated to delivering top-notch service and support.

 

With Starlite’s expertise, you can ensure your auditorium lighting needs are met with the highest standards. Reach out today to learn how our solutions can transform your audiovisual experience, ensuring it’s dynamic and future-ready.

 

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How to Choose the Right AV System for Your Needs

How to Choose the Right AV System for Your Needs

Sep 18, 2024 | Audio, Equipment, Systems, Visual

Choosing the right audiovisual (AV) system is more than just a technical decision; it’s about creating environments that foster effective communication and enhance experiences. Whether in a corporate boardroom or at a live entertainment venue, a well-designed and integrated AV system can transform mundane interactions into engaging events.

Starlite understands the power of precision in audiovisual solutions. With our extensive experience and commitment to innovation, each AV setup we design is perfectly tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients. If you’re looking to captivate an audience, facilitate a workshop, or throw an unforgettable event, our team is breaking down exactly how to choose the right AV system for your needs.

 

What is an AV System?

 

An AV system is a synergy of technologies that manage and present both audio and visual content to enrich communications and interactions. It typically encompasses:

  • Speakers to fill the room with sound.
  • Microphones to capture clear audio.
  • Video Equipment like projectors and monitors that bring visuals to life.
  • Mixing Consoles and Digital Signal Processors (DSP) to balance audio inputs.
  • Cabling and Connectors to seamlessly link all components.
  • Interactive Technology to increase collaboration, learning and audience engagement.
  • Audio-Video Conferencing Equipment

 A sleek corporate conference room, a bustling entertainment venue, or a dynamic classroom—the right AV system is pivotal for your space. In corporate settings, it supports impactful presentations and global meetings. With entertainment, it amplifies the thrill with crisp audio and vivid visuals. And educational environments, it transforms teaching into a more interactive, engaging learning experience.

Understanding AV Control and Operating Systems:  

At the heart of any efficient AV setup is the AV control system, a sophisticated interface that simplifies the operation of complex technologies. This system allows you to manage every aspect of your AV setup with ease, from switching between audio and video sources to adjusting light levels, all contributing to a smoother and more integrated event.

Think of the AV operating system as the brain behind the operation. A crucial software that ensures all your AV components communicate effectively and operate in harmony. This system supports diverse AV applications and enhances system reliability. This will provide a user-friendly interface that makes complex setups manageable.

The brand selected for your AV control system, whether it be Crestron, Q-Sys, or Extron, will define the native control language. This selection is generally based on the existing installation, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration within the current AV environment.

 

Types of AV Systems

Choosing the right type of AV system—whether portable or installed, wired or wireless—is crucial for matching your specific operational context and objectives.

Portable vs. Installed Systems

Portable AV systems offer flexibility and are ideal for events or spaces that require temporary setups. They can be easily moved and configured for various occasions. Installed systems, on the other hand, are permanent solutions that provide consistency and reliability for venues such as theaters, conference rooms, or educational institutions.

 

Wireless vs. Wired Solutions

Wireless AV systems provide a clean, uncluttered setup without the hassle of cables, making them perfect for spaces where flexibility and aesthetics are key. Wired systems typically offer more reliability and can handle larger amounts of data transmission without interference, suitable for settings where performance and stability are critical. 

 

Specialized Systems for Different Industries

AV systems can be tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries. For example, healthcare facilities may require systems with privacy considerations, while sports venues need large, robust sound systems capable of reaching thousands of spectators.

 What is Considered AV Equipment?

AV equipment encompasses any device that handles either audio or video functions, or both. This includes microphones, speakers, video cameras, TVs, projectors, screens, mixing consoles, and networking devices that help in capturing, displaying, or improving sound and video quality. No matter the specific equipment, there are a few key features to always consider:

Audio Quality and Clarity: High-quality audio is essential for ensuring clear communication and enhancing the overall experience, whether in a presentation or during a live performance.

Video Resolution and Display Options: The resolution of video displays affects how vividly content is presented. Options range from standard definition to ultra-high-definition displays, impacting the sharpness and detail of the video.

Integration Capabilities with Existing Technology: An effective AV system should seamlessly integrate with existing technological setups, enhancing functionality without requiring extensive modifications.

Ease of Use and Maintenance: Systems should be user-friendly, allowing easy operation and maintenance. This reduces the need for frequent professional assistance and supports longevity and reliability. 

Installation and Setup

Once you have the equipment you need, the installation step is just as important. Detailed planning is critical to ensure the AV system fits well within the space and meets all functional requirements. This involves considering room acoustics, seating arrangements, and visual sightlines. While DIY installations can be cost-effective for simple setups, professional installation is recommended for more complex systems to ensure optimal performance and safety.

 

Make sure to choose AV systems that offer flexibility for future upgrades as technology evolves and needs change. Staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends can help you leverage new tools and innovations that enhance system performance and functionality.

 

Choosing the Right Partner

Selecting a provider that offers comprehensive services, from consultation and design to installation and support is vital. Starlite provides customized AV solutions with an emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction, backed by a team of experts dedicated to delivering top-notch service and support.

With Starlite’s expertise, you can ensure your AV needs are met with the highest standards. Reach out today to learn how our solutions can transform your audiovisual experience, ensuring it’s dynamic and future-ready.

Check out some of our previous work

 

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Live Sound 101: What to Look for in a Sound System for Events

Live Sound 101: What to Look for in a Sound System for Events

Aug 21, 2024 | Audio, Equipment, Event Technology, Lighting, Production, Sales, Visual

Whether you’re hosting a conference, concert, or corporate event, it is important to understand the basics of a sound system. This guide will explain what to look for in an event sound system, covering the essentials from audio mixers to speaker placement, and offering expert tips to help you achieve flawless sound. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to collaborate effectively with your audiovisual provider and ensure your event leaves a lasting impression.

 

Understanding the Basics of a Sound System

 

High-quality audio is critical to communicating your message and engaging your audience.  Poor sound quality can have a negative impact on an event and can cause unintended consequences. You may not need to become an expert, but understanding the basics will help you when collaborating with your audiovisual provider.

 

Audio Mixer

Sound systems for events include an audio mixer, which processes and combines audio signals before routing them to speakers. Modern digital mixers have become industry standard due to their flexibility, advanced routing, and the ability to save settings. Traditional analog mixers are becoming less common, but are also still in use for less complex or budget-conscious events.

Speakers

Speaker selection depends on venue size, crowd size, and whether the event is indoors or outdoors. Line-array speakers offer scalability, wide coverage and significant control. While line-array speakers are centrally located, point-source speakers are used when distributing speakers throughout the venue is preferred. Active speakers have built-in amplification and often include on-board signal processing. Passive speakers require external amplifiers and processing.

Microphones

The type and number of microphones depend on the event’s needs. Wired mics work well for stationary use, while their wireless counterparts allow mobility. Handheld mics are often used for vocal performances and speaking engagements. Lavaliers and head worn mics can be a good fit for theatre or hands-free presentations. Instrument-specific mics ensure proper sound capture for musical performances.

Power Amplifiers

These devices boost audio signals from the mixer to the speakers. The power level, measured in watts, must match the power requirement of the speakers.

Signal Processing

For added audio control and effects, outboard equipment like compressors, limiters, reverb, and delay can customize and enhance sound attributes.

Cables & Accessories

Common sound system accessories may include cabling, stands, rigging hardware and road cases. These accessories are vital for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your sound system.

Factors to Consider When Designing a Sound System

 

Venue

A major consideration is the event and venue size and type. The venue’s shape, ceiling height, and building materials affect sound quality. Larger venues need powerful systems to project sound effectively without distortion, ensuring clear sound across greater distances. The number of attendees also determines the necessary power and coverage.

 

Purpose

The purpose of the event is also important. Conferences need systems for speech intelligibility, while live music concerts require high-fidelity music reproduction. In addition, balancing cost and performance is crucial. Finding a professional audio system that fits your budget while meeting your event’s needs is key.

 

Practicality

Sound systems for events requiring frequent setup and teardown should be lightweight and easy to transport. The weather rating of equipment should be considered for events being held outdoors.

 

Staffing

The feature set and complexity of an audio system should be matched with the technical expertise of the operator. For best results, experienced audio engineers can be provided by your audiovisual provider. If you choose to operate it yourself, get educated. There are many online resources available from equipment manufacturers. Your equipment provider may also available to assist you in choosing the right equipment and to answer many of your questions.

 

Tips and Tricks for Designing Event Sound

 

When designing a sound system for an event, the choices you make can significantly impact the overall audio quality and audience experience. From selecting the right type of speakers to choosing the appropriate mixing console, each decision plays a critical role in delivering clear, powerful sound. Custom configurations tailored to your event’s specific needs will help you achieve the best results — here are a few tips and tricks:

 

1. Confirm that the venue has sufficient power to handle not just audio, but all aspects that will be in-use during the event (lighting, band, catering, etc.). Locate breaker panel(s) ahead of time.

 

2. The placement of speakers and microphones is crucial for sound quality and feedback control. Speakers should be positioned to cover the audience evenly without creating dead zones or excessive overlap. Microphones need to be placed to avoid picking up unwanted noise and feedback. Ensuring proper placement can make a significant difference in the clarity and balance of the sound.

 

3. Test the system before the event to ensure everything runs smoothly. Verify that wireless microphone frequencies are free of interference from other nearby devices.  Inform presenters about common microphone techniques.

 

4. Equalization (EQ) is vital for optimizing sound quality and reducing feedback. Proper use of EQ can enhance clarity, balance frequencies, and tailor the sound to the venue’s specific acoustics. High or low-pass filters and parametric EQ are commonly used to address problematic frequencies and ensure a clean, clear audio output.

 

5. Pay attention to time alignment, which ensures that sound from all speakers reaches the audience simultaneously — critical in larger venues with multiple speaker setups. Misaligned speakers can muddy the sound. Using digital signal processors (DSPs) to adjust the timing allows you to synchronize audio output and create a cohesive listening experience.

 

6. As the venue fills with attendees, the required volume of your system increases, so make sure the system is slightly bigger than what your venue requires. Monitor and constantly adjust levels as needed throughout the event.

FAQs: Event Sound Systems

Here are some of the most common questions about sound systems for events—and their answers.

Q: What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a sound system for an event?
A: The most important factor is the size and type of the event. This includes the venue’s size, shape, and acoustic properties, as well as the number of attendees and the nature of the event (e.g., conference, concert, corporate gathering). These elements determine the power and type of sound system needed to ensure clear, high-quality audio.
Q: How do I choose the right speakers for my event?
A: Choosing the right speakers depends on the venue size, location, and type of event. Line-array speakers offer scalability, wide coverage and significant control. Point-source speakers are used when distributing speakers throughout the venue is preferred.
Q: Do I need a digital or analog audio mixer?
A: The choice between a digital or analog audio mixer depends on your event’s complexity and your budget. Digital mixers offer greater flexibility, advanced routing options, and the ability to save settings. Analog mixers may be suitable for simpler setups.
Q: How can I ensure high sound quality at my event?
A: High sound quality is achieved through clear, dynamic, and well-balanced audio. This involves proper speaker placement, using high-quality cables and accessories, and employing equalization (EQ) techniques to optimize sound for the venue’s acoustics. Testing and adjustment of the system before and during the event are also crucial
Q: What are some tips for setting up a sound system for an outdoor event?
A: For outdoor events, ensure the sound system is weather-resistant and powerful enough to cover the area. Position speakers to cover the audience evenly and avoid dead zones. Test wireless microphone frequencies to prevent interference and ensure all equipment is securely set up to withstand environmental conditions.
Q: Why is equalization (EQ) important in event sound systems?
A: Equalization (EQ) is essential for enhancing sound quality by balancing frequencies and reducing feedback. Proper use of EQ can address problematic frequencies, improve clarity, and tailor the sound to the specific acoustics of the venue. This ensures a clean and clear audio output for your event.

Avoid the Guesswork and Let the Professionals Design Your Sound System

If you have an important event, chances are you’ve got your hands full. You may benefit from the technical expertise offered by an experienced provider. Starlite has the best equipment available, and when it comes to executing the ideal event, you can avoid the guesswork and leave it to us. Just as we have in our previous work, our experienced team will ensure that every element of your system is handled with precision and care.

With decades of experience our Event Technology team is ready for your project’s consultation.

 

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Theatrical Lighting 101: The Basics

Theatrical Lighting 101: The Basics

Mar 26, 2024 | Event Technology, Integration, Lighting, Production, Sales, Systems, Visual

The magic of a theatrical performance is not just in its compelling script or talented performers; it’s also in the ambiance created by the lighting. Theatrical lighting is an art form that transforms a stage into a canvas, where light and shadow play crucial roles in conveying emotions and setting the mood. Starlite understands the power of lighting in bringing a production to life. With years of expertise in providing theatrical lighting solutions, we’re here to shed light on the essentials.

Understanding Theatrical Lighting

Theatrical lighting refers to the practice of using light and lighting effects to enhance, support, and integrate with the performance of a theatrical production. It’s a crucial element in creating the atmosphere, mood, and visual impact of stage plays, musicals, operas, dance performances, and other live events. Theatrical lighting goes beyond merely illuminating the stage and actors. It is an art form that contributes significantly to the storytelling and emotional experience of the audience.

 

Why is lighting important to any theatrical event?

Lighting plays a pivotal role in theatrical events for several reasons, each contributing to the overall impact and success of the production:

 

Visibility: At its most basic, lighting ensures the audience can see the performers and the set. Good lighting makes it possible to focus attention on the main action and ensures that facial expressions and movements are visible, even to those seated far from the stage.

 

Atmosphere: Lighting is a powerful tool for setting the mood of a scene. It can evoke emotions, from happiness and tranquility to tension and fear. For example, warm, soft lighting can create a soft, intimate atmosphere, while stark, harsh lighting can convey a sense of danger or unease.

 

Guiding the Audience’s Attention: Lighting directs the audience’s focus to where it needs to be at any given moment. It can highlight a single individual, a group, or a specific part of the set, guiding the audience through the story.

 

Enhancing Scenic Design: Lighting can complement and enhance the scenic design, adding depth and dimension to the stage. It can create the illusion of different times of day, change the perceived setting, or highlight specific aspects of the set.

 

Creating Special Effects: Lighting is essential for creating various special effects on stage. This includes simulating natural phenomena like sunrise, or sunset, and creating abstract effects that contribute to the storytelling.

 

Enhancing Performance: Good lighting enhances the performers’ work, allowing them to convey their characters’ emotions and intentions more effectively. It can also influence the pace and rhythm of the performance.

 

Technical and Safety: Proper lighting is crucial for the safety of performers and crew members. It ensures that everyone can see clearly, preventing accidents and ensuring smooth scene changes and movements on stage.

 

What lighting is used in theatre?

 

A variety of lighting types are employed to achieve the desired artistic effects. Each type of lighting serves a specific purpose and contributes uniquely to the overall production. 

  • Ellipsoidal Spotlights: These lights, often called “lekos”, are versatile and can be focused to create a sharp or soft-edged beam. They are often used for their ability to shape light using shutters and to project patterns (gobos).
  • PARs: These are versatile, easy-to-use lights that produce a variety of looks from a concentrated beam to soft, blended washes. They can be used for general stage coverage or lighting scenery. In addition to theatre, they are often used in concerts and dance performances.  
  • Intelligent Lighting: These automated lights can be programmed to move, change colors, and alter patterns. They are used for dynamic lighting effects, quick repositioning of “specials” and projection of gobos and effects. 
  • Striplights: These linear fixtures can be placed either on the stage floor or hung from a pipe batten. They are often used to light cycloramas and other backdrops. Some units have asymmetrical optics, providing even lighting from top to bottom. 
  • Followspots: Followspots are instruments that are manually controlled by an operator.  The operator has control of movement, color, and beam size. They are primarily used to highlight actors, but can also be used to highlight props or specific areas of the stage.

 

While many of these fixture types were traditionally lamp-based, LED lighting has become increasingly popular in theatre. Some of the advantages of LED lighting include: 

  • less maintenance
  • low heat emission 
  • increased energy efficiency

 

Lighting Design Basics

How do you light a theatre stage?

Lighting a theatre stage is a complex and creative process that involves a combination of technical expertise and artistic vision. Here’s an overview of how this is typically done:

 

  1. Understand the Vision: The first step is to understand the narrative, emotional tone, and specific requirements of the production to ensure that the lighting supports the overall vision.
  2. Develop a Lighting Plan: This plan outlines where lights will be placed, the types of lights used, and how they will be used to create different effects. 
  3. Choose the Right Equipment: Selecting the appropriate lighting fixtures is crucial. Choices depend on the desired effect – for instance, whether the scene calls for sharp focused light, soft washes, or colored lighting.
  4. Set Up and Position Lights: Lights are positioned based on the lighting plan. This involves placing lights at various angles and heights – front, back, side, overhead – to achieve the desired illumination and shadow effects.
  5. Rehearsals and Adjustments: During rehearsals, the lighting crew adjusts the lighting as needed. This phase often requires fine-tuning to perfect the look and feel of each moment of a performance.
  6. Safety Considerations: Throughout the setup and operation, safety is paramount. This includes securing all fixtures and cables, ensuring the lighting does not create hazardous conditions, and complying with all relevant safety standards.

 

Lighting a theatre stage is an art that combines technical skill with creative vision. This is achieved through various lighting setups, each designed to evoke specific emotions and enhance the storytelling. The use of color in lighting is particularly impactful. Different colors can dramatically alter the audience’s perception of a scene. Warm colors like reds and oranges can evoke feelings of warmth and passion, while cooler colors like blues and greens can create a sense of calm or sadness. Color choices can also have a significant impact on the appearance of costumes and scenery.  This application of color theory is crucial in designing effective theatrical lighting. 

 

Another important aspect is the balance between light and shadow. This balance is key to creating visual depth and dimension on stage. The strategic use of shadows can highlight certain elements, create mood, and add a sense of realism to the production. It’s not just about illuminating the space; it’s about shaping the light to enhance the visual storytelling.

 

The process of designing theatrical lighting is highly collaborative. Starlite specializes in providing custom lighting solutions tailored to the unique needs of each production. Our team works closely with clients to understand their vision and create lighting designs that bring their ideas to life. Our recent projects, which can be explored here, showcase our diverse capabilities and commitment to innovation in theatrical lighting.

 

Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction sets the team at Starlite apart. We’re ready to assist whether you’re looking for a custom lighting solution or need expert advice on your next production. Contact us today to bring your theatrical vision to light, and let us help you create an unforgettable stage experience.

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Projection Mapping: Greensboro Science Center

Projection Mapping: Greensboro Science Center

Jan 8, 2021 | Audio, Lighting, Visual

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The Greensboro Science Center – a zoo, aquarium, museum, and treetop adventure park in Greensboro, North Carolina – decided to create a Winter Wonderlights extravaganza this year as a way to “Celebrate the holidays with your loved ones surrounded by shimmering lights, brilliant colors, and joyful sounds of the season!” while still outdoors.

The Science Center hired renowned producers GES to create and develop the concept. GES then called on their relationship with Starlite to provide technical elements – lighting, video, and audio – throughout the zoo.

One of the components Starlite was tasked with was transforming a 42-foot wide barn into a larger-than-life immersive gingerbread house through large-format projection mapping. 

Starlite used Christie DLP high-output projectors in Tempest outdoor climate-controlled enclosures. The content was delivered and video-mapped with Mac servers running QLAB software. 

GES provided the show concept and produced the video content. 

Starlite utilized show control to automate the functions of the media server, projectors, and audio equipment. This allowed for a more streamlined process for the on-site technicians.

The show ran each evening, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day.