Forget Disney. Universal. And Sea World. Last November 19-21, the biggest attraction in Orlando, FL, was at the Orange County Convention Center. The 12th annual edition of Lighting Dimensions International rewrote the history books, drawing record numbers of exhibitors and attendees to the theme park capital of the world. Indeed, the hyperactivity on opening day (particularly from smoke and fog machines) temporarily shut down air conditioning systems throughout the venue, with a resulting rise in temperatures that underscored just how hot a show this was.
Consider. The previous highwater mark, reached at LDI97 in Las Vegas, was 12,088 attendees, and 390 exhibitors occupying 1,065 booths. LDI99 climbed to 12,446 attendees, from all 50 states, and 20% from overseas, representing a total of 73 countries. Exhibitor-wise, the show (produced by Intertec Exhibitions, and sponsored by Lighting Dimensions, Entertainment Design, and Sound & Video Contractor magazines, with support from the Entertainment Services & Technology Association) attracted 406 companies to the floor, in a total of 1,267 booth spaces. After an LDI98 spent in Arizona, the resumption of the show's Orlando-Vegas axis is evidently a hit with buyers and sellers.
Early arrivals to Orlando participated in the second annual LDInstitute, held November 15-18. The program featured sold-out courses such as: Basics of Automated Lighting led by Jim Waits of Vari-Lite, with consoles by Avolites, Avab, Compulite, ETC, and Strand; Flying Pig Systems' Wholehog programming (beginner and advanced taught by Vickie Claiborne of High End Systems); AutoCAD, taught by Rich Rose of UCLA; and MiniCAD, taught by Frank Brault of Diehl Graphsoft.
ESTA co-produced two sessions: the extremely well-received Basics of Power Distribution, organized by Bob Luther of Lex Products with the participation of Ron Dahlquist of Dadco, Ken Vannice of Leviton/NSI Colortran, Mitch Stein of Leviton, Bill Grande of Leviton, Don Carey of Litton Veam, Andy Topika of Technical Group Services, Ken Patterson of Bandit Lites, and Rich Wolpert of Union Connector. ESTA's other co-production was Electronic Field Service, led by Carmel Alston of Lightech Service Company, with participation by Frank Stewart of Specialty Tech Services, Milton Davis from Strand Lighting, David North from ETC, and Paul Maddox from Colortran.
Three days of LDI99 tutorials and workshops in Lighting Design and Production Techniques, Sound in Entertainment, and Light in Architecture ran concurrently with the show and featured over 100 outstanding speakers including Jeannette Farmer and a panel of lighting directors from Cirque du Soleil, Tony Award-winning lighting designer Donald Holder, and Bill Whitlock of Jensen Transformers, whose presentation on controlling hum, buzz, and noise in audio and video systems was one of the most popular workshops at LDI99.
Hum, buzz, and noise were all part of the package at an effects-filled LDI Awards ceremony, held November 21 in the convention center's theatre, which currently houses a musical version of Ben-Hur. The program began and ended with pyrotechnics and confetti displays arranged by Le Maitre Special Effects, ArtFX, and Theatre Effects. Honorees called to the podium erected on the Roman Forum set reflected the diversity of the entertainment technology industry and its new products, an eclectic assortment from a turbulent year that saw more consolidation, dramatic shifts in company strategy, a flurry of lawsuits--and some real innovation, too.
The 1999 Wally Russell Award, established in 1992 in memory of industry pioneer Wally Russell, was presented to Don Stern, chairman of the lighting division of Production Resource Group. From 1976 to 1997, Stern ran Bash Theatrical Lighting, the sales and rental company that is now part of PRG.
LDI99 Awards went to a select group of deserving individuals. A Life in Light Award was presented to legendary salesman Sonny Sonnenfeld, the founder of the Broadway Lighting Master Classes. Donald Holder, represented in part by a pride of Lion Kings that have opened worldwide, won the Lighting Designer of the Year Award in Entertainment for his diverse body of work.
Several veterans of Universal Studios Islands of Adventure (USIOA) theme park, which opened last year, claimed honors. Anne Militello's illumination for the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride netted her the Lighting Designer of the Year Award for a Themed Project. Pat Gallegos, who lit USIOA's Toon Lagoon, won Lighting Designer of the Year honors in Architecture for theatrically inspired projects that also included the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, the California State Archives Museum, Legoland California, and several of the spaces at Sony Metreon in San Francisco. John Miceli of Soundelux Showorks, a longtime innovator in theme park audio, took home Sound Designer of the Year honors for USIOA's Cat in the Hat ride at Seuss Landing.
Each LDI showcases clever, attractive booths, and LDI99 was no exception. Best Small Booth honors went to Nitenday Industries, which had a diner setting with fiber optics on the menu. Morpheus Lights won an honorable mention in this category for its smart presentation of multiple product lines and services in one space.
Two companies won Best Large Booth Awards. Martin Professional was cited for its elegant integration of lighting and sound demonstrations as well as a sales area and a colorful application of its products; the booth was designed by Robert Achlimbari. The second honoree was Production Resource Group, for its form-follows-function design engineered to introduce the eye-catching Light & Sound Design Icon M(TM) luminaire in a theatrical setting, and an award-winning light show demonstration (integral to the overall booth design) of its seemingly limitless possibilities. The booth was designed by Brian Webb and lit by Howard Werner; lighting was programmed by Chris Varrin and projections were programmed by Myron Moore and Ron Woodall. The show was designed and programmed by Kille Knobel and Drew Findley. In this category, International Theatrical Truss received an honorable mention for its festive holiday presentation.
Best Laser Show went to Laserlite FX, which combined lasers and 3D video in a unique presentation designed and programmed by Kris Tyte and Warren Toll. An honorable mention went to Performance Entertainment Group, for its multi-faceted festival of laser shows representing the efforts of its members.
Product Awards of the Year saluted a variety of achievements. The winning Widget was the Triple E Uni-Ring from Automatic Devices, designed for rapid connection and disconnection of drapes, cloth, and cables by means of a quarter-turn attachment to Unistrut-type track and rail. Sound Product of the Year went to the VRAS variable room acoustics system by Level Control Systems.
Lighting Tools and Software Product of the Year honors went to the Rosco Horizon and CAST Lighting's WYSIWYG. For the first time, two leading manufacturers of software joined forces to produce an integrated control and visualization package that runs on a standard computer. Horizon, in combination with WYSIWYG, offers all the features of a control board with an intuitive interface and HTML-based magic sheet to ensure easy operation and a short learning curve.
Hardware for Xenon floated away with a Scenic Effect Product of the Year kudo for its 180-degree lens used inside an Airstar Lighting balloon. This lens enables projections to cover an entire hemisphere at short range. The GAM Torch from GAM Products claimed an honorable mention.
The Rigging and Hardware Product of the Year Award went to the Linklift, an extremely quiet, mechanically simple stage lift from Protech and Serapid USA. Honorable mention in this category went to the JK Clamp from Matthews Studio Equipment.
In the Architecture category, Lighting Product of the Year went to Martin Professional for the MiniMAC profile and MiniMAC wash luminaires. These compact automated luminaires bring lighting effects normally only seen on the dance floor or onstage to the retail environment. Honorable mentions went to the LSI BP75 architectural profile zoom luminaire and Fluid Light Technologies' Smart Neon Controller.
The Entertainment Lighting Product of the Year was awarded to Robert Juliat's Cyrano followspot. Judges were particularly taken with an "amazing" iris that falls back to nothing. The AutoYoke by City Theatrical, Mole-Richardson's 2.5k Molebeam, the GrandMA console from MA Lighting, and the Inno-Four 575W HMI Lamphouse for the ETC Source Four (distributed by GAM Products) all took home honorable mentions in this category.
A Special Award for Technical Innovation in lighting products went to LSD's Icon M. The product, from the PRG division, is based on an amalgam of different technologies. Judges (and floorwalkers) say it lights the way to the next millennium.
Also presented during the ceremony were the ESTA Dealer's Choice awards, voted on by the dealer members of the association. The two winners in the Best Equipment category were the City Theatrical AutoYoke and the ETC Source Four PARnel. Best Expendable/Widget went to Apollo Design Technology's Colour Scenic Gobos.
ESTA Dealer's Choice Customer Service Awards were also presented for the first time at LDI99, to publicly recognize vendors that provide consistently good customer service. L.E. Nelson Sales Corp. won in the manufacturers with 1-6 employees category; Apollo Design Technology for manufacturers with 7-25 employees; and High End Systems and Rose Brand tied in the category for manufacturers with over 25 employees.
For 60 participants from around the world, including such countries as Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Kuwait, and South Africa, there was more LDI99 to come. They took part in Backstage Orlando, a whirlwind tour of the new attractions at Disney World and USIOA. The Backstage Orlando adventure began on November 21 with a keynote by entertainment architect David Rockwell, then a performance of Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba in its new theatre at Downtown Disney. A panel discussion followed, featuring Cirque's lighting designer Luc Lafortune, architect Michel Aube and theatre consultant Claude-Andre Roy from Sceno Plus, La Nouba company manager Richard Dennison, technical director Ray Forton, and construction coordinator John MacDonald. Dinner and a light show (thanks to technical manager Bob Girardi) followed at Pleasure Island's Mannequins.
Tired, but ready to roll, the group set out for Disney World at 8am on Monday, November 22, and spent a 14-hour day (organized by Bettina Buckley of Walt Disney World Entertainment) seeing the new live shows Disney has on tap, from Festival of the Lion King, Tarzan Rocks, and Doug Live to Fantasmic! and the new millennium projects, Tapestry of Nations and IllumiNations2000: Reflections of Earth. Panel discussions about these shows featured a cast of Disney designers, producers, and directors as well as LDs such as David Stephens, Bill Ferrara, and freelancer Stan Crocker who brought his rock and roll expertise to the Tarzan show. Other panelists included senior show producer Jim Heffelfinger, director Don Dorsey, audio designers Joe Knapp and Kelly Prince, show control manager David Hynds and pyromaniac extraordinaire Tyler Wymer.
Lunch and dinner on "Disney Day" took place in the Fantasmic! amphitheatre, where after dinner the Backstage gang watched the show from a private viewing area. During the afternoon they had an in-depth backstage tour of the Fantasmic! set and control booth, one of the high points of the day. After viewing the nighttime millennium shows, dessert and coffee were served in the upstairs lounge of the Norway pavilion, as part of the final panel discussion of the day.
With no rest for the weary, the buses rolled again at 8am on Tuesday, November 23, for another 14-hour day, this time for a non-stop tour of Universal Studios Islands of Adventure. After breakfast at Circus McGurkus, and a behind-the-scenes video on the making of the various attractions, various members of the creative teams spoke, including Militello about Spider-Man; LDs Ted Ferreira, Tim Linamen, and David Bowling, Charles Cowley from Strand Lighting, and audio specialists Jeff Bobbin from Soundelux, and Ed Sullivan from Signal Perfection Ltd., a PRG company.
After riding the rides (each group went on Spider-Man at least twice), and a fast dinner break at Hard Rock Cafe, the tour continued with a look at the lighting systems at Hard Rock Live (thanks to lighting technician Cliff Fletcher) and a quick look at some of the control systems at Universal CityWalk in the company of technical manager Mark Orchard.
By the time the farewell breakfast rolled around on Wednesday morning, everybody was pretty exhausted--but already looking forward to Backstage Las Vegas after LDI2000. LDI enters the new millennium this October 20-22 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Vegas; phone the LDI Hotline at 800/288-8606 or 303/741-2901, or see www.ldishow.com and www.etecnyc.net for further details.
What follows is a highly selective report from the last show floor of the previous millennium, emphasizing new product introductions and news flashes from Orlando. A complete listing of all LDI99 exhibitors, including reader service numbers to further facilitate information gathering, can be found on page 34. This report was compiled by David Barbour, John Calhoun, Robert Cashill, Liz French, William L. Maiman, and Catherine McHugh.A.C. Lighting had a booth full of surprises. As the new US distributor of MA Lighting, Zero 88, and (non-exclusively) Selecon, the new products were many. From MA came the GrandMA console (MA Lighting was also on hand, with its own booth). >From Zero 88 comes the Illusion 120- or 240-channel control console, designed for the theatre. From Jands, a longtime associate of A.C., comes the Event 408 and Event 416 moving light consoles with channel faders. Also from A.C., the latest on the WYSIWYG front: Now users can give CAST Lighting their WYSIWYG file and cues from any lighting console, and have it turned into a full-motion video complete with sound.
Abrisa Glass & Coatings showed its newly expanded line of over 160 dichroic colors, as well as hot mirrors in three "flavors:" UV hot, color neutral, and commercial hot mirror. A.C.T. Enterprises made a polite presentation of its Podium Lighting Systems (or Polites) for the hotel and convention industries. The floor-based units are placed behind a speaker at a lectern and provide front, rear, side, and emblem lighting.
Advanced Devices manufactures the new CL-Series cam devices, which are two-piece housings that install with hand tools, as well as the Bates and Group Five stagepin connectors. Airstar Lighting Balloons, in collaboration with Hardware Xenon, introduced the Internal Projection Sphere, a balloon projection system comprising 5,000W to 7,000W xenon projectors installed in 9' to 16' air-filled balloons; 140 to 280 images can be projected, scrolled, and rotated on the outside surface of the balloon. Alcorn McBride showed two tools in use at theme parks worldwide, its standalone lighting controller the DMX Machine and the LightCue, which can record 512 DMX channels in real time.
Altman Stage Lighting had a number of product upgrades, including a new reflector design for the Shakespeare ellipsoidal, which promises 20-30% more output than before and new rings for the Star PAR, for easier assembly. The big news is the company's full CDM line of units, featuring the high-output, long-life bulbs that have won awards in the past; the line is being distributed by The Katie Group Inc., which handles Altman Architectural Products. Completing the new lineup is the Masterspin variable speed/bi-directional dual gobo rotator.
American DJ Supply showed the Joy 300 professional DMX512 intelligent lighting fixture which, among many features, has 32 color combinations, 10 colors plus white, seven gobos plus spot, a third effects wheel and a Sound Active mode. Other products included the DJ Scan, with seven colors plus white and 11 gobos plus spot, DMX512 protocol, and X/Y mirror movement; the Color-150 DMX professional DMX color changer, with seven colors plus white; the Sonic Beam/SC, the Swivel Beam/SC, and the Raven rotating single gobo projector.
American Harlequin Corp. showed its many flooring products, including the Activity sprung floor system and Harlequin sprung panels, pre-manufactured panels for permanent or stage use. Apollo Design Technology introduced its custom ColourScenic patterns, full-color photo gobos with 10,000dpi, and the SuperResolution black-and-white patterns, also 10,000dpi. The Roto-Q is a standard, 12-speed single-gobo rotator, and the Roto-Q DMX is a DMX-controlled, indexable, intelligent, two-gobo rotator. Applied Electronics introduced its new Custom Circle Truss, a Prewired Double Frame for the ETC Source Four as well as the Celco Ventura Twin and the MCT Motor Controller.
Arri USA Inc.'s big news was the adaptation of its 1,000W, 2,000W, and 5,000W tungsten and 1,200W, 2,500W, 4,000W, and 6,000W HMI fresnels for theatrical application. Features include a modified housing with coated glass reflector for heat reduction and better gel life, a new lens door that eliminates spill light and provides a secure mounting for scrollers or louvers, an adjustable yoke with tilt and focus reference marks, and a low-noise igniter.
Fresh from PLASA, Artistic Licence introduced to the US market the Colour-Fill LED digital luminaire, claimed to generate 4.3 billion colors under DMX control, plus No Worries-TC, an automatic show backup that records the final rehearsal of up to 12 hours of 2,048 DMX512 channels. Automatic Devices showed its Triple E Friction Drive model FDO2, a motorized master carrier used for carrying curtains, doors, etc., for the first time at LDI. The FDO2 is capable of pulling approximately 150lb, twice as much as the FDO1 Friction Drive, its older sibling.
Avab Transtechnik showed the VLC Safari museum and architecture control system, billed as the first truly interactive advanced lighting and multimedia control system. Other products on hand were the Avab Pronto!, a mid-sized console designed for roadhouses and other venues, and the Voyager studio control system, used in the new Good Morning America studio in Times Square.
Avenger showed off its new miniConductor, a lower-cost version of the Conductor which uses the same Composer, Instruments, and Improvisor software as the original show controller, but accepts one standard Conductor interface card and is equipped with a fixed port configuration: four serial I/O, eight relay inputs, eight contact closure outputs, MIDI I/O, timecode in, and DMX512 I/O.
Avolites introduced the Azure 2000 and the Azure Shadow consoles, which are especially suited for nightclubs, themed environments, and time-coded industrial shows. Also, the ART 2000 dimmer offers 48 channels at 20A each, and the Visualizer System now runs on a laptop computer via a MIDI port.
Bandit Lites introduced new staff personnel: Arun Braun in the design and specification department, Todd Seaye in sales, Cori Coley as Nashville's office manager, and Snowy as the London office's general manager. Barbizon emphasized its online outpost, www.barbizon.com. B&H Photo-Video-Pro Audio now offers lighting equipment of all types, including studio and location lighting kits. And Bogen Photo Corp., US distributor of Manfrotto equipment, introduced the company's Convertible Boom Stand 420, which converts from a four-section light stand to a telescoping light boom and stand. Bogen announced that it would soon be entering the truss business in the US market.
Brightline showed a prototype of a series of multipurpose fluorescent lighting fixtures, especially suited for teleconferencing and architectural applications. These transformable fixtures, available as surface-mount or in 2x2 ceiling tiles, and in versions for 8' to 16' ceiling height, will be dimmable and motorized for a nearly 360-degree tilt and swivel.
LDI premieres in the Chauvet booth included several lights from the company's Compact DJ Series: the Starburst, consisting of one master and three slave heads, with 16 lenses and 16-pattern chase; the Mini-Sphere, a 300W unit with 360-degree rotation and 62 multicolor beams; Mini Linedancer, with fan-shaped, crisscrossing, sound-activated beams; and the Meteorite, a lightweight unit with 26 lenses and 52 multicolored beams. The Mensa nine-channel DMX luminaire was also shown for the first time at LDI.
Cinemills Corp. showed prototypes of a light pipe and of a 21W handheld portable HMI light. CITC turned attendees' heads with the Ring Rocket, which produces 20" rings of smoke that soar through the air up to 50' on a straight trajectory, every three seconds. Also on display was the Jungle Mist System, the first-ever flexible mist fogging system. City Theatrical's AutoYoke combines popular ellipsoidal lighting instruments and a DMX-controlled moving yoke to create a fully featured automated luminaire. Currently, the AutoYoke is available with ETC or Strand ellipsoidals.
Clear-Com introduced the new KP speaker stations and MR headset stations. Both are compatible with all Clear-Com party-line intercom systems, and can connect with a digital matrix system via the Clear-Com CCI-22 interface module.
The Coherent Viper(TM) laser family is high-power, bright-green lasers available in 5W, 8W, and 10W versions. All operate on standard single-phase electrical power and are housed in sealed, compact enclosures with an integral air-cooled system incorporated into the unit.
ColorCorp showed the Litefast 360-degree transparent digital communication and advertising system. Litefast can be used as a freestanding kiosk (6' tall) or in an inverted ceiling mount (28" to 68" down from the ceiling), has a 16-color palette, and can integrate BMP, JPG, and PCS files into a message. A smaller version, the LC12, is available for countertop or ceiling displays.
LED equipment maker Color Kinetics came to LDI99 with the iColor, a digital color-changing cove light housed inside an MR-type enclosure compatible with MR-16s, including track lighting systems. It also showed the prototype of a linear wall-washing unit, but was most interested in spreading the word that it had been granted patent allowance for its Chromacore technology, which covers networkable control of LED-based color-changing lighting fixtures.
Columbus McKinnon showed a prototype of the Silentstar, a modification of the Lodestar electric chain hoist featuring a silent braking system, which will be available this month. Compulite introduced the SparkTop 1500 Channel Hard Disk console. Designed specifically for touring applications, the self-contained unit includes a monitor, effects package and internal SMPTE, MIDI, and ethernet hookups. Also, the Luna series of expandable yokes feature a total payload of up to 20kg and are suitable for luminaires including PCs, fresnels, and profile spots.
Cooper Lighting showed Etchings decorative wall-mount surface lighting, made with etched grid glass and matte chrome brackets; and Decotrims, a new line of architectural decorative trims available in a variety of colors in sand-blasted glass, textured acrylic, and anodized surfaces. Cooper also handles the SuperVision line of fiber-optic products.
Creative Stage Lighting showed Entertainment Power Systems, modular power distro systems fabricated from 1/8" aluminum, with a flanged top and bottom for added rigidity.
Crescit Software's Light Shop 5.0 user interface provides detailed lighting instrument spec sheet printouts and a 3D preview using VRML technology for internet-ready presentations. The company has also introduced Daslight 2000 software, with ScanLibrary, a complete library of moving lights to create a variety of preprogrammed scenes.
The Crosby Group introduced its Job Tough JT2000 hand hoist, part of a new line of JT hand hoists and trolleys. Available in seven sizes, ranging in capacity from half a ton to seven tons, its features include a zinc-plated alloy steel load chain, a factory-installed overload limiting device, and heavy-duty hooks protected with a corrosion-resistant yellow chromate finish. New from Crouse-Hinds Molded Products are E-Z1016 "J" Series connectors, which are intermateable with the company's E1016 Series connectors and use existing E1016 contacts.
Dazian Fabrics showed for the first time a flame-retardant, 120"-wide two-way stretch fabric called Trapeze, available in white.
Design & Drafting showed LD Studio with VectorWorks. This software has many uses: Users can create seating, design curved or straight truss, generate great-looking 2D or 3D documents, design rigging, create a rigging cue list, keep track of all data as designs are built, and generate paperwork as needed. With LD Studio, users can design a show and light a scene, render it in Quick-Draw 3D, and e-mail clients a bmp/pic file for review. And LD Studio can export all necessary data to program a user's control console including setup, cues, and patch list.
DeSisti Lighting showed prototypes of its 70W and 150W fresnels, using the Philips CDM lamp, plus modular fluorescent units, Renoir broadlights, and Goya broad-beam HMIs. Diehl Graphsoft Inc. introduced VectorWorks, MiniCAD software that provides graphical representation of each lighting design with an attached database of instrument information. Diversitronics introduced the 1,800W DMX strobe, which includes Hyperflash and delivers 10,000W peak performance and over one million candle power.
Doug Fleenor Design showed the DMX Rotor-Router, a DMX512 distribution system featuring 12 inputs and an unlimited number of outputs. Consisting of an Input Module with 12 inputs, and any number of Output Modules with 12 outputs each, the unit patches any input to any output using front panel rotary switches.
Doughty Engineering introduced a line of Trigger Clamps, designed to allow one person to hang heavy luminaires and scanners. The weight of the object being hung closes the trigger and the bottom half of the clamp, becoming its own safety factor. Products from Doughty and Prolyte are distributed in the US by Hollaender Manufacturing.
Dove Systems' aviary on the show floor featured the Dimmermaster dimmer pack, including 24 1.2kW units, that come in a standard EIA 19" rack frame, and products like the CM-SS4, a handheld controller for use where simple operation is required. Check out new features on its website, www.dovesystems.com.
Electronics Diversified Inc. had three new products: The TSC/E, a distributed LAN-based control system; the TSC/E Touch Screen Terminal, designed as a standalone control interface for the TSC/E control system; and the DMX Port, a multifunction, multi-protocol 802.3 ethernet-compatible distributed control device.
Electronic Theatre Controls launched the ETC Source Four PARnel, which introduces a new category of fixture to the lighting world. With its patent-pending wave lens design and easy focusing knob, the PARnel lets the user quickly spot or flood like a fresnel, accessing a field with a range of 25-45 degrees. The Source Four HID is ETC's new high-intensity discharge lighting fixture, with a long-life 9,000-hour lamp, designed for architectural applications. The ETCNet2 DMX Node is the latest development in the company's extensive ethernet capabilities; with it and ETCNet2, the company says one has access to 32,000 channels of DMX to control any device, input or output, anywhere in a lighting system.
Entertainment Lighting Controls introduced the Road Warrior 8000, a controller/dimmer in one touring package with two scenes for eight channels at up to 1,000W each. The company also manufactures the entire former Teatronics product line. Besides the rigging hardware, cables, chains, hooks, and motor control systems in the Fehr Bros. booth, the company was showing a prototype of a thin rubber-coated matte black cable. Fiberstars introduced the 601 fiber-optic illuminator that utilizes a 250W metal-halide lamp and a precision-designed optical path for efficient guiding of the light to the port and subsequent coupling with the fiber, with DMX control.
Fluid Light Technologies introduced the 808 MP Smart Neon Controller, which can be programmed for flowing, flashing, and dimming effects with standard neon tubes. Flutter Fetti Inc. showed its new version of the Mr. Big Shot launching system, a handheld CO2 launcher that shoots confetti up to 40' (12m) in the air.
Future Light showed the Future Light 1000 recessed downlight, the FL 650 floodlight, and the MR-16 striplight, all designed for use in orchestra shell ceilings and acoustic canopies. Gala refined its Spiralift column to include a 4 1/2" version for smaller stage lift applications like seating riser, portable, piano, and compensating lifts. Its Hybrid Controlled Vertilift Rigging System was displayed integrating the Nomad Motion Control System console from Stage Technologies.
Besides lighting the way with its GAM Torch, GAM Products Inc. introduced the GLC-12, a 12-channel lighting control unit to create lightning and other strobe chase effects. Options include light or dark chase, 10VDC and DMX512 output, four pre-programmed lighting effects, 12 preprogrammed chases, instant start and stop buttons, and master control of up to 12 Flickermasters. From 12 to 72 GAM StarStrobes can be used.
GE Lighting now offers a full range of HPL 575W lamps in 115, 120, and 230V versions and also with a long-life (up to 2,000 hours) filament. A special 750W version in 115 and 230V lamp is also new.
Geni had a number of new products, including the Spin Master effects light, the Mojo Scan economy scanner; the Mojo Moon effects light, and Zap Strobes. Genie Industries showed its line of material lifts, portable aerial work platforms, scissor lifts, self-propelled telescopic and articulating booms, and trailer-mounted articulated booms.
Gilderfluke & Co.'s animatronic mambo monkey brought the curious to the booth of the robotics and sound systems maker, which now has a sales and service office in Orlando. It introduced the BR-MultiShow Brick animation control system, a device that sends out 256 channels of DMX512 that can be used on ridethrough or walk-through theme park attractions that have up to eight different scenes.
George & Goldberg Design Associates featured the Tracker, a modular motion control system capable of controlling standard chain hoists when used with the Chain Track outboard encoder module.
Goddard Design added modules to expand and enhance its DMX-NET(TM) distribution system. The Lil'DMXter 1A features improved power management and CE marking for direct operation and connection to electrical service without conventional "plug-in"-type wall transformers. Gray Interfaces displayed the new DMXDart, a handheld moving light control and full-featured DMX analyzer. Besides an extensive instrument library (with attributes), there is an integrated joystick for direct moving light control and placement.
Group One showed lots of product associated with its various lines. From Clay Paky, there was the Stage Line of automated yoke fixtures, plus its moving-mirror Scan fixtures. Pulsar Light of Cambridge presented the LDI debut of the Masterpiece 216 control desk, which takes several steps beyond the capabilities of its previous Masterpiece 108. Other Pulsar debuts included the Demon Strobe, and the 6-way Masterpiece Outstation, designed for applications where many remote access control points are required, each with up to six cues. New from Elektralite was an operating system upgrade for the Elektralite CP-10xt universal lighting controller, which adds a new function called "Pile On" enabling one to recall two or more cues at the same time, to pile on top of each other. Elektralite also introduced several new features for the CP100 universal lighting controller, including a user-definable fixtures function, to produce custom-defined fixtures for the CP-100's universal fixture library on a computer using a standard text editor, and the implementation of various special effects.
Recently merged companies High End Systems and Flying Pig Systems Ltd. featured eight new products. The Studio Beam(TM) PC (pebble-convex) and the Cyberlight(R) Turbo(TM) models feature innovative new optical designs for color-mixing and maximum light output. The Studio Spot(TM) CYM includes all the features of the Studio Spot 575 except the dual color wheels are replaced here with a color-mixing system. Three new luminaires in the Color Pro(R) Series (the HX, Hxi, and FX) from Lightwave Research(R)--High End's new architectural division--feature affordable color mixing, full dimming and strobing functions in flexible, high-powered designs. The Hog 500 and the Hog 1000 consoles offer the Wholehog II Version 3 operating system, including Effects Engine(TM) playback and 3D positional programming, in packages tailored for smaller applications.
Hydrel, which is now under the Lithonia Lighting umbrella, introduced the 4428, the first metal-halide underwater light, also rated for out of water. There are two versions of the 175W light, one for fountains and one for swimming pools.
The newest development from Interactive Technologies is the DMX/Flex(TM), a modular DMX processing and distribution system consisting of a "frame" with separate modules that enable the user to select and specify a DMX distribution system that is customized for a particular application. Isolated input and output, merge, backup, and playback modules are available. The Interesting Products approach to liquid nitrogen effects equipment and systems incorporates newly developed level and liquid nitrogen flow controls for simplified operation and maintenance, and enable more precise fog volume controls and level sensing for greater system reliability.
The International Theatrical Truss booth was in holiday mode, with a large Christmas tree made of circular truss and topped with a mirror ball. Items on display included power distro systems, power cable assemblies, ramps, and cables. James Thomas Engineering introduced the Tower Lifting System, a new style of tower truss with hinge sections, as well as the Five-Way 12" Super Truss Corner and the new PAR-56 outdoor fixture.
"J" Custom Supply, a distributor for Carol Cable, A/W Cable, Cam-Loks, Remke Cable Grips, Arrow Hart Connectors, Trico Clamps, Steel Hampers, and Copperloy Aluminum Loading Ramps, was showing power distro boxes and power cable assemblies, which the company builds. J&K Theatrical Supplies was touting its Internet store, specializing in expendable products, on the web at www.youneedus.com, which went up last August.
Kino Flo Inc. featured its DMX-controlled fluorescent fixtures for film and video, highlighted by True Match full-spectrum lamps. Exhibited products include the Diva-Lite 200 dimming fixture and the 6'x6' Blanket Lite.
An LDI premiere at KLS Electronics' booth was the Digi Pro 212, a high-output DMX scanner with 11 colors plus white, nine gobos and two blackouts, plus strobing and dimming capabilities. The Digi Pro 212 is made in the US and can run standalone or master/slave or via LC 2001. KLS is now carrying the FAL line of lighting products, and engineer Simon Hammond has joined the company, designing new products and providing sales and tech support. Kupo Company Ltd. launched a range of TF-1000 studio fresnels, plus a three-section wind-up stand and a weatherproof PAR-64 for outdoor use.
On the laser front, Laser Fantasy's new Infinity 2000 incorporates a YAG laser with 40W of output power that produces spectacular lime-green beams that are visible for over 35 miles. The self-contained laser in a road case operates on single-phase, 30A service, and only needs water connection and computer control for laser shows in any venue. Laser Production Network has developed an interactive Laser Character software that is compatible with Pangolin(R) Lasershow Designer for the creation of interactive effects and characters that are created and manipulated live. A pair of joysticks with nine buttons trigger different sequences of laser frames, providing smooth manipulation of animation images. Laserlite F/X and Laservision, of Australia, touted their lengthy experience creating laser presentations and effects for corporate presentations, special events, trade shows, musical tours and events, amusement parks, and nightclubs.
LD Systems, a founding member of the Stellar Event & Presentation Resources group, touted its systems integration, sales, and service capabilities for corporate presentations, trade shows, and exhibitions.
Lee Filters introduced Fluorescent Sleeves, tube-shaped filters in more than 200 colors, available in T8 and T12 diameters. The company also expanded its 700 Series by 22 new colors, from Special Pale Lavender to Deep Purple.
Lehigh Electric Products has upgraded its Windows 95-based Millennium lighting console by adding a moving lights module option. This includes a fixture library, 16-bit and LTP channels, and 512 moving light channels with provisions for preset palettes control and other show information.
Le Maitre Special Effects Inc. unleashed a blizzard of products, beginning with the True North snow machine, the first snow simulator in the company's lineup. L.E. Nelson Sales added the HX604/GLC and the HX605/GLA to the Thorn HX family. Both lamps are special compact filament versions, designed for optimum light output in the newly developed Altman and Strand ellipsoidals.
Leprecon introduced the Lightscape architectural series dimmer that comes with software. The company also presented the 96-channel touring rack and power distribution rack, which can be custom-made to specifications. Leviton Manufacturing introduced Smart Lock lockout-action GFCI, a ground fault circuit interrupter that is designed to prevent a GFCI from being reset after it has been damaged and can no longer provide ground fault protection.
New products from Lighting & Electronics include the Mini-Strip Lite, an aluminum version of the Mini-Strip, the Blackbird, a UV fluorescent striplight, and the City Line series of 70W CDM spotlights. LightTech Group Inc. showed a Computer Light with ballast for single-camera application, to represent the light from computer screens, and a redesigned version of its 16-lamp, 880W BFL fluorescent fixture. Set browsers to www.LightTrader.com for a full service "digital dealership" of lighting products available 24/7.
Lightronics introduced its new portable DMX512 dimmer pack, the AS-40D. Also new at the show was the MP-512 soft-patchable, multifunction converter, which converts 96 channels of 0-10VDC to DMX512, AMX192, or LMX128. Italy's Link srl was showing LK connectors, a new line of connectors and tools compatible with Socapex SL 419 series that cover a range of power from 575W to 18kW.
Lite-Puter Enterprise Co. Ltd. introduced the Alfa-1 (DMX controller,) Beta-1 (switch pack) and Beta-2 (dimmer). This series has 250 programmable scenes, 32 sequences, and six schedule programs which are ideally suited to controlling lighting in restaurants or shops. Littlite/CAE Inc. introduced its new buyer-friendly packaging for retail merchandising and a new full-color brochure.
Lowel-Light Manufacturing Inc. introduced three products in its MultiNeon line. The MultiNeon ColorChanger can display a range of colors, with or without DMX control, using a single neon tube. The MultiNeon ColorCreator is a three-tube electronic control unit, with built-in DMX protocol to control and dim colors and control the timing of chases. The MultiNeon PCDesigner I creates and demonstrates the ColorCreator DMX program at any location remote from the actual neon hardware. Lowel also introduced the DP Daylight System, a family of three HMI/MSR fixtures (200W, 400W, and 575W) based on Lowel's DP Light, with the addition of a compact triple-output Uni-Ballast.
Lighting Services Inc. (LSI) showed its BP75 architectural profile zoom luminaire. The BP75 series features a drop-in cartridge with the ability to project, focus, and rotate up to 100 degrees any combination of two patterns, which can be either glass, metal, or dichroic color filters, simultaneously. The unit features easy lens barrel replacement for either narrow-angle zoom from 15 to 25 degrees, or wide-angle zoom from 25 to 40 degrees. LTM Corp. of America introduced the Cinespace 125/200W S/E HMI modular light with electronic ballast, intended for ENG or EFP use.
Lighting control solutions for ballrooms and meeting rooms using the Grafik 6000 preset lighting control system and Hi-Lume fluorescent dimming ballasts were illustrated at the Lutron booth. The company's LUT-DMX Interface Control allows users to control DMX512 equipment from Grafik Eye 3000/4000 (up to 64 DMX channels) or Grafik 6000 (up to 512 DMX channels) systems.
LuxArt Conception premiered a new full 3D Lighting Design software that works in conjunction with software from Kaydara to provide real-time 3D renderings. Lycian Stage Lighting showed a prototype of a modular followspot with features that include an electronic ballast, interchangeable lamp housings for short- and long-throw requirements, and color correction slots.
"Living Light" is the new theme at Martin Professional, and the butterfly logo for this concept spread its wings on the show floor to unveil products geared toward eye-catching uses in markets like restaurants and retail, beyond Martin's traditional domains of touring and clubs. Its MAC automated luminaire family has spawned the MiniMAC profile and the MiniMAC washlight, the former with 12 colors and seven rotating replaceable patterns for texture, image, and logo projection, the latter with 12 colors and an elegant, compact design that fits right into intimate environments. Other products include the first in the MX series of scanners and the CX series of color changers, and the Exterior 600 Compact. Jem Smoke Machines and Mach Speakers Systems debuted new models at LDI as well. A surprise introduction at its elaborate press conference and dealer meeting was the MAC 600 NT, which adds variable CTO and other features to the 600--a provocative move, given the MAC 600's embattled status as part of Vari-Lite's patent infringement suit against the Danish company in the US. The firm has also opened a subsidiary, Martin Professional GmbH, in Karlfeld, Germany, near Munich.
Matthews Studio Group/Olesen offered hookups to its ShowbizMart.com website, featuring Hollywood Rental and Duke City Video inventory, and used equipment and memorabilia for auction.
Matthews Studio Equipment introduced the JK Clamp, which incorporates a ball joint to allow vertical hanging of lighting fixtures on non-horizontal structural members. A Kip Locking Handle is included for easy adjustment.
MDG added three new products to its line of foggers. The Micro Max (part of a family that includes the Mini Max and Mega Max) fog generator promises dense fog, low fluid consumption, and three safety systems. The Ice Fog Touring low fog generator uses refrigerated liquid CO2 as a coolant and CO2 gas as a propellant for noiseless production of dense fog. The Ice Fog LFG is billed as the non-stop low fog generator.
Milliken & Co. introduced Encore, a 100% polyester velour fabric with double flame resistance and lot-to-lot color consistency, available in 15oz and 22oz weights and 13 colors. Minolta Corp. introduced the Illuminance Meter T-10 Series, a compact measurement system engineered for a broad range of lighting applications.
Mobolazer Inc. introduced the multicolor 45mW RG Beam laser projector that uses a 10mW green laser and a 30mW red laser to generate hundreds of color combinations with only two DMX channels. Moonlight Illumination debuted many new products at LDI, including oil projectors, an intelligent scanner, foggers, followspots and fresnels, and disco effects.
Mole-Richardson Co. introduced the Type 8211 1,200W and the Type 8311 2,500W 18" HMI Molebeam Projectors, for a streaming ray of light and sharp shadow effects. Also new from the company is the 2,000W Molequartz Spacelite, a small lantern light with a removable black skirt for downward direction. The Molennium Series, available in three sizes, introduces Mole products to the architectural market.
Morpheus Lights showed three new products. The XLFader, previously available only for touring, is now for sale. The WetFader is a CYM color-fading system for any water-related or outdoor application. The BriteBurst has been redesigned, with a new reflective system and a more compact unit (due to internal ballast installation), plus the addition of an XLFader on each unit; the BriteBurst 2000 has, at 36', an output in excess of 10,000fc and a beam variable from 4 to 22 degrees.
Users of AutoCAD(R) will find MSZ Design's AutoBlock 2000 a real timesaver. Besides having a theatrical lighting symbols library numbering in the hundreds, full front and sectional views are included, as are full rotation, drag and drop, and many time-saving ACAD macros. Navigator Systems demonstrated the HireTrack Eclipse system, a Windows-based production management software program that now features multiple currencies, multiple price structures, an improved word processor, full interface to MS Outlook, and the ability to share inventory between 64 different locations.
Now part of Leviton, NSI/Colortran showed some new products of its own. NSI introduced Skyhook, a retractable lighting support device for multipurpose architectural spaces designed specifically to support theatrical lighting units when an event requires them. Colortran introduced Colornet Network Protocol Converters, an ethernet node that serves as an interface for remote devices and displays for Colortran consoles and architectural products that support Colornet 2.0, including the Innovator console.
Nitenday manufactures numerous fiber-optic lighting products, including the Dawn 100 illuminator, which utilizes a 100W metal-halide lamp with a daylight color temperature and an 8,000-hour lamp life. Nutech Industries Inc. features custom-made electrical temporary distribution equipment.
Ocean State Rigging features fall protection and motion control equipment. The company also recently created a new service branch called Ocean State Event Services Inc., which is located at 230 Power Court, Suite 140, Sanford, FL 32771, phone: 407/324-7596.
Omnisistem Lights & Effects showcased the 1,200W MSR/HMI followspot, which uses either an HMI 1,200W or MSR 1,200W lamp and is suited for short- and medium-throw applications of up to 66-132' (20-40m).
Optic-Tech International Corp. introduced its Optication line of fiber-optic products, including its side- and end-illuminating cables and light source illuminators. Opti-Forms engineers and manufactures a full line of high-performance reflective optics, including coatings for reflective surfaces and objects for the lighting industry. Optima showed a number of products. New from Griven is the Acrobat professional standard moving yoke projector. Other products included the Shiva moving-mirror unit from Geni, and the Sweetlight computer-based lighting controller.
New Osram Sylvania lamps on display included the StudioLine 55W/3200 and 55W/5600 Special Fluorescent Lamps that allow easy blending with halogen (55W/5600K) and metal-halide (55W/5600K), respectively. The HMI 6000 W/SE metal-halide lamp is a high-wattage, single-ended lamp designed for film and TV lighting with a long life (500 hours) and high efficiency (over 90 lumens per watt).
PC Lights showed the Turbo 700W all-weather automated wash luminaire. Designed for use in wet locations and theme park applications, the Turbo is controlled using standard DMX512 protocol and is available in moving or fixed types. The enclosure is die-cast aluminum and the luminaire takes either a Philips MSR700/2 or Philips MSD 700 lamp.
Penn Industries offers a complete line of single-sided, triangle and box truss as well an indoor/outdoor portable staging line. Performance Electric Inc. introduced the PRL Series aluminum connector strips, which can house both high- and low-voltage wiring.
Philips Lighting continues to grow its line of short-arc lamps that concentrate light to a more compact point-source and are reflector-friendly. The company's new 1,200W MSR short-arc lamp is currently being utilized in the LSD Icon M. A new ceramic metal-halide 150W short-arc lamp was displayed with an arc tube the same size as a 70W Philips MasterColor ceramic discharge metal-halide lamp.
Premier Lighting and Production Co. introduced its Transparent Image Projector, which allows users to fabricate and project custom images and photographs with existing lighting equipment like PAR-64s in minutes. Applications include scenic projection at theme parks and stage shows.
Production Resource Group rocked the world of more than one lighting designer with the Icon M, the world's first fixture with Digital Light Processing; among its many wonders is the Digital Micromirror Device, a silicon chip with approximately 800,000 micromirrors on its surface, each of which is individually controlled to reflect an exact intensity of light, allowing designers to manipulate thousands of individual points of light. Other features include the onboard library of up to 1,000 digital gobos, all of which can be manipulated, and a precision Parametric color system to allow full color selection across the entire visible spectrum.
The star of the Protech booth was the Linklift, an extremely quiet, mechanically simple stage lift that requires no caissons, is rigid in both compression and tension, and offers fast, fluid movement with loads in excess of 50,000lb.
Premiering at Pyrotek's booth (shared with sister firm Production Design International, which creates effects-laden shows) was Dragons, a propane-fed, DMX-controlled effects device that can detonate flame from 5' to 40' in either a column or shoot fireballs of various diameters.
The most notable release from laser products distributor Quarton was Laser Show 2000, a Windows 95- and 98-compatible software program that allows users to project images (like company logos) from their computers. Red Point featured RP.1 fog fluid which is manufactured in accordance with industry standards for use with all water-based fog machines.
Reel EFX Inc. introduced the Digital Air Control Fan, a one-horsepower, variable-speed, variable-focus fan with a two-axis tilt-pan yoke, controlled from a standard DMX board. The RE Fan II Turbo introduces a turbo blade to the RE Fan II, for increased strength and efficiency. Robert Juliat showed the Cyrano followspot. The unit is distinguished by its flat field, adjustable edge, smooth dimming, dichroic color correction and two dichroic colors, plus ergonomic design and sleek irising capability.
Rose Brand debuted many new theatrical fabrics at its booth, including Elegance, a 58/60"-wide rayon/polyester, which can be made flame retardant; Milan, a nubby silk-like 100% flame-retardant polyester available in a stunning range of colors; and Kimono, a crinkled Trevira, suggested for tent swags and drapery backdrops.
>From Rosco/Entertainment Technology comes the Capio, billed as the first completely solid-state dimmer rack that is price-competitive with SCR dimmer racks. Also from Rosco/ET, the latest version of the Horizon console allows Horizon and WYSIWYG to talk to each other.
SECOA features portable staging, rigging, curtains, lighting, sound, special effects, dimming and control, electrical distribution, and riser systems for the performing arts.
Selecon premiered the Pacific Super Wide, which provides a profile beam of 90 degrees, with all the advantages of the Pacific range of base-down axial profiles, and the Aureol MR-16 Profile and Spot, which offer precise beam shaping and pattern projection across the complete beam angle zoom range of 25-50 degrees. SGM showed the Giotto Spot 1200, the new professional moving head spot powered by an MSR 1200 lamp with the latest generation of electronic ballast; it is partnered with SGM's Giotto Wash 1200.
Skjonberg Controls touted its rigging and motion controls for touring and permanent installations, and noted that its equipment helped the members of 'NSync to fly over the audience on the band's current tour. Slick Systems displayed its extensive line of trussing, including Mega Beam, rectangular truss for large outdoor roof systems; and Maxi Beam, a medium- to heavyweight truss available in many configurations and built for the rigors of touring.
The focus at Space Cannon was on its Lighthose light columns and its Focus outdoor architectural lighting luminaires, short arc lamps designed to withstand the worst environmental conditions. It includes the company's dichroic color changer with independent CYM control, built-in motorized zoom and mechanical dimmer/shutter, and compact, high-pressure metal-halide lamps.
Spacecraft Components Corp. showed its line of electrical connectors, cable assemblies, lighting cable, and custom connectors. Special Effects Systems Inc. introduced the Radio Remote Control System for firing confetti launchers or pyrotechnics and the hand-held Fettis "R" Us disposable streamer launchers.
Special FX Lighting showed its MT-16 track head, which projects gobos and sunburst effects and creates dramatic prism effects. Spectra-Physics has developed and engineered lasers specifically designed for entertainment-related applications--the multicolor Chroma and solid-state Millennia i lasers offer compactness, reliability, and very high brightness for laser applications of all types. The Millennia i series operate on 120/220V service and are CE-marked and UL-listed.
SSP showed the Compulite products listed previously. The company also has become the exclusive Canadian/US distributor for Robert Juliat. SSRC showed its line of custom electrical distro equipment, including aluminum connector strips, plug boxes, floor pockets, patch and interceptor panels, multicable assemblies, pipe grid systems, and cable and accessories.
Staging equipment was an integral part of the show. Stageline held a cocktail party in its booth to announce the launch of the SL 100 Smart Mobile staging unit, which is so user-friendly it can be hauled by a pickup truck, and, in some cases, can be operated by a computer. Staging Concepts introduced the SC2000 Folding Seating Riser, a multilevel riser that folds into a portable unit easily rolled on casters, plus a new rolling drum riser. Stage Technologies presented the Solo handheld or wall-mounted controller; when used with the companies' Nomad or Acrobat consoles, the Solo provides a highly integrated solution, allowing rigging and show operation to be made for any location. And Steeldeck Inc. introduced the Mirage chair, a four-cushion, economical chair which offers lumbar support and is available as a simple riser bench, a tall floor-standing bench, a standalone tip-up chair, or as a traditional theatre chair.
Strand Lighting's SL spotlight range was expanded with the new SL Architectural series, which use metal-halide 150W CDM lamps. Also debuting was the 300 Series console, designed to extend the popular 500 Series for a wider range of users. The new consoles feature a unique modular construction; modules may be arranged in any order or pattern and may be detached up to 300' apart. The new 310 Showcontrollers--there are four in all--offer full support for MIDI, ASCII, and SMPTE show control. Also making its premiere was the next generation of Strand's ShowNet networking software, ShowNet Pro, which expands the capacity of ShowNet and updates the system with the support of a full 10/100 BT operation.
Studio Due continued to explore the architectural possibilities of its CityColor units by showcasing the CityBeam, a CYM flood/spot color changer that can be used over long distances to illuminate towers and skyscrapers. Also shown was the MiniCity, a CYM flood projector with a Philips CDM lamp that can be used to light buildings and exhibitions.
Sunray Manufacturing introduced a new line of lightweight compact electronic flicker-free ballasts, from 200W to 18kW, a 12,000W single-ended PAR fixture, and the 457, a 400W/575W/700W lamp with switchable power supply. Syncrolite brought a range of products, but highlighted the SX7K, a 7,000W xenon automated skylight with an Ushio lamp. The compact unit offers 540-degree pan and 250-degree tilt, has features that include a 12-frame variable speed color scroller, and can be mounted in any plane: flown, ground, or floor stand mount.
Technical Supply Japan is distributing the LEC LED curtain, which dominated its booth. The product, from Tokyo-based Engineer Lighting, has thousands of RGB LEDs, readied for image projection, that are mounted on a flexible net and controlled via a custom unit. The lightweight unit can be used to fit various spaces.
Alongside its Techni-Scan intelligent lights, new products at the Techni-Lux booth included aroma and scent machines, to add another flavor to a variety of applications. The company also touted a 6" flame effect in hanging, standing, and wall-mountable versions, and a range of PAR cans with smoke machines built into them.
Among the new products at TEI Electronics' booth were the Duocannon, a dual-function snow and foam cannon, constructed entirely of stainless steel and capable of projecting up to 25'; the UVMAX 400W UV projector, which only weighs 22lb; and the Stagescan Intelligent Light System package. Telecast Fiber Systems has developed many unique systems using fiber-optic cable for the loss-free distribution of video, audio, SMPTE, and other control systems for broadcast, video/film production, and general entertainment-related applications.
Tempest Lighting has complemented its Hurricane Lighting Enclosure, for large moving mirror luminaires, with its Tornado and Baby Tornado Enclosures, for moving yoke automated lights large and small, as their names imply. All use the firm's Digital Enclosure Control system. Theatre Effects was showing its extensive line of effects and pyro supplies, including UV paint, BonoFiber fire-retarding fluid, the Tiny-Fogger ("the tiniest fog machine in the world"), and the Automator, a four-channel controller with LED channel and power indicators.
TIR Systems Ltd. has developed new luminaires and linear lighting configurations that are used for interior and exterior applications. The color-changing luminaire is completely LED-based with DMX512 control over the entire RGB color range, with a 100,000-hour life. The SLP4 Recessed Light Pipe utilizes MR-16 lamps (or LED option) and has a Lexan front diffuser and is available in lengths from 4' to 10'.
TMB Associates introduced the Grapple, which allows riggers to make inline 90-degree connections between similar trusses anywhere along a perpendicular primary truss. The company is also now representing in the US: Kino-Flo's product line, Artistic Licence's Colour-Fill series of luminaires, and DHA's products, including the Digital Beam Light and Light Curtain.
Toleeto Fasteners showed the tried-and-true Cord-Lox cable fastener/wrap line, including the Closed Loop, Rivet Series, Utility Straps, Buckle & Grommet, Open Loop, Coil 'n' Carry, and Custom Straps variations on the theme. Cord-Lox straps can be custom imprinted with a company name or logo.
Tomcat featured its CT family of trussing, compatible with plated or spigoted truss and offering enhanced flexibility in event setup. Its Hoist and Rigging Workshops will be held in Midland, TX, February 2-5; Sydney, Australia, March 6-7; and Bromborough, England, May 20-22. See www.tomcatglobal.com for more information.
Tools for Stagecraft showed its improved Spot Dot 2000 followspot sight, and introduced the 5-Way Laser, Remote Controlled Rotating Laser, and Handheld Laser Distance Finder.
Top Lighting displayed its line of special effects lighting equipment and disco effects, including the Rock UFO disco/DJ light, the Eurolite, and the Ripple light. Total Structures Inc. introduced Arena Deck Modular Staging, which features fast and easy assembly with no tools required.
Tracoman has a wide array of new products. Coemar products included the C4 HE, a hard-edge yoke luminaire that incorporates color-mixing, zoom, and focus in one compact, quiet package; the Panorama Cyc 1800 wash fixture designed for large area projection; and the Broadway Cyc 2K, the first professional color-mixing cyclight for theatrical and studio applications. Also on hand was The Bubble, from Oxo, which consists of an ABS base with an integral fan; this inflates a transparent plastic cylinder, providing a convenient, lightweight outdoor housing for automated lighting fixtures. Also new were the VR8 plastic scanner, available with or without rotating patterns, from Abstract, as well as that company's new Club range of units. Finally on the Tracoman stand was Mobil-Tech's ALP3 heavy-duty stand and that company's complete DJ Light system.
Tubeworks showed its Gloconfetti, which the company bills as "the world's first glow-in-the-dark confetti." New at the Union Connector booth were grip carts, featuring several different configurations, aluminum tubework construction, a patent-pending "one-finger" brake system, and powdercoat finish.
Uni-Par Lighting's newest product is the UP-2 New Source Reflector Kit, a specially designed PAR that can be easily installed in any Uni-Par UP-2 can. Unlike old "ray-kits," the kit has no special wiring, and uses a halogen T-10 lamp, which the company claims lasts 26 times as long as the DYS. The reflector can be used to increase the output of JDR-16, R-16, R-20, R-30, PAR-20, and PAR-30 lamps.
Universal Manufacturing makes triangular and square truss and has supplied custom fabrication and exhibits and displays for diverse projects such as the GM Building in New York, the Ultimate Universe store in Portland, OR, the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey store in Fairfax, VA, and WJBK TV2 in Detroit, MI. The new Ushio family of HPL-type lamps include 575 and 750W versions in line voltages of 115, 120, 220, 230, 240, and 77V for applications of all types worldwide.
Hell didn't exactly freeze over, as its ads suggested it might, but Vari-Lite did introduce its two highly anticipated, for-sale luminaires. The VL2400(TM) Series wash luminaire is based on the design of the VL5(TM) family of parabolic wash luminaires. Sources include 1,200W and 1,000W incandescent or 1,200W and 625W arc versions and include the Dichro*Tune(TM) color mechanism providing smooth-timed crossfades and faster color changes. The VL2201(TM) spot is a compact and lightweight luminaire based on the VL6B(TM) spot luminaire, with 3:1 zoom optics, rotating gobos, and a center beam intensity greater than competing 575W fixtures.
Visual Effects Inc. introduced the Phonic 615 and 1860 Power Pod Mixers, the VEI DC 9400 8-channel, low-voltage chasing system, the VEI Quasar Scanner, the VEI Omega Motor Head, and the VEI G3 Hi-Tech Controller.
Featured at the Wenger booth was the Encore Showmobile, a portable stage with retractable stage, positionable roof and canopy, plenty of storage space for auxiliary equipment, 12V battery for hydraulics, a load center which provides 110V service for fluorescent lights and four onstage outlets, and optional power upgrade, which adds 220V service for theatrical lighting.
Westsun International Inc. announced that following its merger with The Obie Company the two will now operate under one name: Westsun America for all US offices including the former Obie Company headquarters in Torrance, CA, and the satellite office in Troy, MI. Dave Oberman will retain his title as president of Westsun America, and Westsun will continue as a Coemar dealer for Tracoman.
White Light had two debuts for its Enliten architectural line. One was the Source Four 575MSD exhibition PAR, developed in collaboration with ETC, for use in larger architectural and retail environments. In prototype was a new metal-halide recessed gobo projector, a compact unit which fits inconspicuously into ceiling voids. Wiko, long known as a source of replacement lamps, has developed the Solux, a complete line of daylight temperature MR-16 units. The Wiko task light fixtures are swivel lights that utilize the Solux MR-16 lamp and have a 360-degree range of positioning for precise placement of task lighting.
Wybron showed its CXI Color Fusion, which uses two color scrolls to create virtually every color of the spectrum. Its CXI Mariner handles water-resistant color changing. Click onto www.wybron.com to use the CXI Color Calculator to find the exact hue required. More than 200 of its Eclipse dousers are helping to create atmospheric lighting effects for Minnesota Timberwolves basketball games at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
Activity at the Xenotech-Strong International booth focused on its architectural Britelights and its Ballast in Head xenon light source. This has an integral power supply, comes in a range of wattages, and incorporates lightweight components that suit it for portable applications.