tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30808891249598835162024-03-13T08:59:00.856-07:00Scenic Design InfoGlenn Davis is Scenic Designer and Manager at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL. He has created numerous scenic stage designs for large and small productions and has assisted churches all over the world. He has an equal passion for the creative arts, and serving the local church. See blogs at Willowproduction.org, Scenicdesigner.blogspot.com, churchproduction.com. He can be reached at gdavis@willowcreek.org Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-10772118623646362252014-03-03T09:57:00.000-08:002014-03-03T09:57:28.691-08:00Scenic Designs by Glenn Davis<span style="color: #bfbfbf; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #BFBFBF; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: background1; mso-themecolor: background1; mso-themeshade: 191;">Throughout the year I have the opportunity to create numerous scenic designs for our main stage at Willow Creek Church. It’s very humbling and exciting to play a part of such large projects that introduces art in such a large scale to our audience. Shown here are a few of the scenic projects that I created in 2013. My hope is that God will be glorified in everything I do..<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-4359546072762015322013-07-20T13:28:00.002-07:002013-07-20T13:28:21.274-07:00Rigging Made Easy: Crimping Tools and Swages by Glenn Davis
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOSbKqe0HDsg-zE98lP15gQLCiDlZkb6zzatQF43NznreSXiDV1qRqWM1NNmHjsG372EaPwXq-WQvhSMUWQTK4HRHjCBZX8IODttzZ90SaOo3WVJhZuOovNElX5WepWgei7bUZs63m9Q/s1600/Crimping+tool+and+Swage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOSbKqe0HDsg-zE98lP15gQLCiDlZkb6zzatQF43NznreSXiDV1qRqWM1NNmHjsG372EaPwXq-WQvhSMUWQTK4HRHjCBZX8IODttzZ90SaOo3WVJhZuOovNElX5WepWgei7bUZs63m9Q/s320/Crimping+tool+and+Swage.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">The way I see it the stage world just looks better when
you have more options toward supporting or flying scenery. At Willow Creek
Church, suspending scenery is very common. At times, we may create over 100-
32’x 1/16” cable drops to suspend a certain weekend look that weighs a few
thousand pounds. Even though it’s a lot of detailed work with the risk involved,
I’m comfortable at the frequency of the process. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Creating cable ends with aircraft cable doesn’t
have to be scary stuff. It can be quick and reliable when properly using the
correct techniques, crimping tool and hardware. Let’s unpack some information
and quickly eliminate some of your fears.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></b></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">Tools<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">There are many great crimping tools on the market
including the hand swage tools, cordless and hydraulic. One of my favorite
crimping tools for under $300 is the bench model crimper. </span><a href="http://www.stageriggingonline.com/hsbemoswto.html"><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">Http://www.stageriggingonline.com/hsbemoswto.html</span></a><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">.
I’ve used this model for several years, and it consistently produces a great
crimp every time. It is reasonably priced, convenient and reliable making it
the best choice toward a crimping tool in my opinion. For cutting aircraft
cable, you will need cutters that are designed for cutting this type of cable. </span><a href="http://www.stageriggingonline.com/tools---fittings-cutting-tools.html"><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">Www.stageriggingonline.com/tools---fittings-cutting-tools.html</span></a><span style="color: #cccccc;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.
There are many to choose from small to large. I use the smaller cable cutters
for most of the 1/16” and 1/8” cables and the larger cable cutters for any size
bigger. It’s best not to use a grinder to cut the cable because of the heat that
is generated by grinding the cable will distort the metal properties in the
cable that could cause failure. Now with all that said, I think we all have met
the guy who isn’t prepared to waste his hard earned dollars on the right tools,
getting by with using a bench vice, pliers, hammer or teeth. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Let me say this with
your best interest in mind, those methods may cost nearly nothing but guarantees
failure when the cable is pushed to the limits. Always use the correct crimping
and cutting tools for your cable and swages.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">Swages<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">There are three styles of swages, also called sleeves or
ferrules, in common use; round swages are used for cable end stops; oval and
double barrel swages are used to make a cable end loop. </span><a href="http://www.stageriggingonline.com/slandst.html"><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;">Www.stageriggingonline.com/slandst.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">.
The double barrel is my favorite and most used swage. It keeps the cables in
their proper places while crimping. All three swages are available in a variety
of cable sizes and materials such as aluminum, copper, zinc plated and
stainless steel. There has been many a discussion on which swage holds better
under a shock load, copper swages or aluminum swages. From my experience and
research the copper swages are shown to hold up better under a shock load, but
both are equal under load weight. Depending on the applications aluminum and
copper are used the most for indoor applications and zinc coated and stainless
steel are used for outdoor use. Bear in mind, using two dissimilar metals or the
wrong kind of swage material for outdoor use can set up a corrosive reaction
resulting in failure in a short period of time. Remember corrosion can also
happen by wrapping tape around the swage and cable. Tape is a no no..<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">Remember, always be aware of your responsibility toward
creating a safe environment and improving upon those rigging skills. In the
next article, we will discuss thimbles and crimping techniques.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-84696086603644641492013-07-01T17:16:00.003-07:002013-07-01T17:18:31.632-07:00Rigging Made Easy: Cable Gliders and Aircraft Cable by Glenn Davis<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiA5vz4EyAhTL-WoGbo-sEw5FF8YjUQAiGvtNqfC5LBRU-rJUxOn_jaLV5iQQNfVjODrwmz24qUK-eXnczq2eme93-cwr8AMNtLHPGDEATKciVJq_H9LkAYq4kl5koiCMmvv0X7RXNaQ/s374/Gliders+and+Cable.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiA5vz4EyAhTL-WoGbo-sEw5FF8YjUQAiGvtNqfC5LBRU-rJUxOn_jaLV5iQQNfVjODrwmz24qUK-eXnczq2eme93-cwr8AMNtLHPGDEATKciVJq_H9LkAYq4kl5koiCMmvv0X7RXNaQ/s320/Gliders+and+Cable.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’ve been hearing a lot lately from individuals who are
working hard at scenic creativity that are disappointed there is very little
information toward tips on rigging and rigging hardware. Almost every scenic
project requires the suspension of some sort of scenic element that echoes back
scary and dangerous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which leads me to
the question that all of us ask sometime in our scenic life, why does
suspension of scenery have to be so hard?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s consistently clear that gravity always seems to demonstrate why it
is the most powerful force in the universe. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if that were not enough to deal with, our <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>funny little brain is designed to repeat
whatever we’ve already done and prefer it that way, even if you’re doing things
the hard way. Scenic life can be soooo stressful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Consistently invest in yourself, constantly improving your
skills, techniques and knowledge of hardware accessories will make life so much
easier. In addition, it can lower cost and save you time. In the past several
years there have been significant improvements toward hardware. Here are a few
of my favorites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One approach that helps with the rigging challenge is with
the use of gripper gliders and aircraft cable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Using the combination creates the illusion that a heavy scenic piece is
freely floating, unanchored by gravity. Cable gliders and aircraft cable are designed
to improve our rigging endeavors toward suspending and adjusting heights much
easier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We frequently use aircraft cable to suspend scenery from the
fly system battens. The stranded steel core adds strength and flexibility to
the cable. Aircraft cable is classified by the number of strands in the cable
multiplied by the number of wires in each strand. For example, the notation 7x7
indicates that the cable has seven strands made up of seven wires in each
strand. We use 1/16” 7x7 black coated galvanized aircraft cable for most of our
scenic needs and 1/8” 7x19 black coated galvanized aircraft cable for much
heavier projects. Be sure to check with the manufacturer specs on the breaking
strength and factor the 5:1 ratio. As an example, if 1/16” cable is rated 480
LBS breaking strength, divide 5 into 480, 96 LBS is the dynamic weight limit
for that cable. If your scenic piece weighs 120 LBS, you would need two 1/16” aircraft
cables to support the weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will go
into detail of creating cable ends using swages, thimbles and crimping tools in
the next article. Here is a link to a great company I purchase our aircraft
cable and rigging supplies from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Http://www.stageriggingonline.com/cable-black-gac.html<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One of my most used hardware in rigging is cable gliders. A
glider is a gripping mechanism for aircraft cable that locks onto the cable by
ball bearings and can be easily move anywhere on the cable by pressing the
quick release plunger. You can adjust a fraction of an inch or by any length.
This makes hanging scenery quick, accurate and saves a lot of frustration toward
repositioning something zillions of times. Just as aircraft cable, gliders are
rated by the breaking strength of the glider with the 5:1 ratio to be applied.
As an example, if the glider is rated at 300 LBS breaking strength then the
dynamic weight limit is 60 LBS. Here is a link to a variety of gliders from.
Griplocksystems.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hopefully you will see this article as beginning steps
toward <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>doing the right amount of
research before doing something yourself. Skimping on hardware or not doing
something proper is dumb and could kill someone. As a church we want to lead
people to heaven, inadvertently, we don’t want to hand them an express
ticket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, safety is the most
important thing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-71825411132044871402013-02-11T18:59:00.000-08:002013-02-11T18:59:15.758-08:00Stage Managers Are Super Heroes by Glenn Davis
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTP0XxoH_5L_VQh7wrn-cbsZzStSbGSjIGgFHjsnUGHtnbLwh0IRacPGnsGTiof8kbcWTP47NtKwwVjYS2gUH7m8j9c4YvCjk3PCs_A6u-WhoEAVOR6dhEvZ3sRunMaKTATVgIVIY9KLY/s1600/stage+manager.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTP0XxoH_5L_VQh7wrn-cbsZzStSbGSjIGgFHjsnUGHtnbLwh0IRacPGnsGTiof8kbcWTP47NtKwwVjYS2gUH7m8j9c4YvCjk3PCs_A6u-WhoEAVOR6dhEvZ3sRunMaKTATVgIVIY9KLY/s1600/stage+manager.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage Managers Are Super Heroes<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you were to ask people attending a weekend service or
event, “When or how did a live scene change on stage in the dark?” Most people
would not have a clue. Unnoticed and in charge of more things than anyone else
in a live production, is one of the most valuable production individuals on the
team, the Stage Manager. They are the Black Ops commander of the stage. They
are so top secret; most individuals that attend a church service see them
rarely. Very few know that a SM has super night vision capability, able to see
in pitch blackness in order to move scenery to a destination. They are able to
leap from behind a curtain in a split second, like a stealth bomber, dropping
an arsenal of fresh batteries in a wireless microphone and disappear. They
refer to pieces of equipment like they were people with feelings. Who are these
unsung individuals that protect our domestic and foreign stage soils? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We all genuinely love seeing all of the different pieces of a
weekend service or event come together. But without the help and support of a
skilled SM the chances of success is highly unlikely. Most </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Production and Programming teams have the opportunity
to see close hand the hard work that these gifted, dedicated individuals do
toward crafting a seamless service but yet go unnoticed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their weekly actions, approach and “can do”
attitude inspires us all. Amid the mayhem of live situations, they are still
able to provide practical and organizational support toward the pastors,
worship team and performing arts team.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a pretty intimidating job when you think about it. They
coordinate communication between all parties. Help individuals to be ready to move
on or off stage in a timely manner. Move scenery and props in a live situation.
Supervise safety, lock, unlock doors and manage break times. Sweep, mop and manage
a crew of volunteers. Gaff label everything with amusing labels and strike a
whole truck load of things after service. I once heard that a stage manager
died, went to St Peter’s gates to talk to Peter when a blackout occurred for
about 15 seconds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the lights came
back on, the gates were struck, and Peter was gone. They do an incredible job toward
detail, staying calm and focused. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="Default" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One thing I’ve learned over the years, you listen to the
stage manager and you do what they say. They have very little sympathy toward
any lame excuses. They were there way early in the morning before anyone was
there and they will be late leaving, hours after everyone leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beware! Any excuse or messing with an SM will
cause them to devise a secret plan for your physical harm. Remember, they are
superheroes with cunningness and brute strength, able to lift tall buildings
and walks under them. Let’s show our respect, appreciation and attention to
these unsung heroes. Take time today to tell them how much you appreciate them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Things you won’t hear a stage manager say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think Godly thoughts when someone screams in
my wireless in-ear Comm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Can you construct the props beefy and heavier? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Casters, who needs casters!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I love scene changes, let’s add one more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can use my gaff tape any time you want.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I love wearing black clothing so much, that’s
all I shop for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Spiking the stage, are you kidding me? That’s a
waste of tape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">8.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Scenic is more important, go ahead and block
stage entrances we’ll work around them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 20.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You have 1 minute before you go on stage, go
ahead and take that potty break.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-31084950710934209722013-01-31T20:34:00.000-08:002013-01-31T20:34:48.892-08:00Safety Toward Rigging by Glenn Davis<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjAOyueTCMlJrwc-ypj-8HKyIte4KakOaNGCjFff60ydxy2E71xbqCPrEd7Sm3US7P4mniEBp3sCDwll-icsgmI_JTHgVHMq3zOSIcdGuLy4fsvNEp3AUP9OsiuYuxfl5wJ4ZerAQFZk/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjAOyueTCMlJrwc-ypj-8HKyIte4KakOaNGCjFff60ydxy2E71xbqCPrEd7Sm3US7P4mniEBp3sCDwll-icsgmI_JTHgVHMq3zOSIcdGuLy4fsvNEp3AUP9OsiuYuxfl5wJ4ZerAQFZk/s320/DSC_0140.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">I read an article recently that said, “Gravity is a
contributing factor in nearly all accidents involving fallen objects.” Even
though, that is a pretty humorous statement, the fact is it takes a lot of
overwhelming work to overcome gravity. When it comes to rigging “probably” or
“maybe” safe, is not the most reassuring words either. Things fall down unless
we take preventive steps to prevent them from doing so. Rigging suspended
scenery, truss, lighting, curtains and screens depend on top quality hardware,
materials and the know-how. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing the
basic structural properties of any materials used for rigging is critical to
understand. Safety, reliable training, inspection, personal responsibility and
efficiency are high values we must hold to.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">The biggest challenge and what will actually be the back
bone of rigging is being aware of trustworthy hardware and the working load
limits. Buy rigging hardware from companies that specialize in rigging is
essential. Most of their web sites have a detailed description of the hardware
and its load rating. Stay away from buying rigging hardware look-a-likes at a
local lumber company. They are not safe for overhead use.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">Knowing the breaking strength of materials, the weight of
scenery flown and the correct construction techniques are just as valuable. If
you’re not for sure of the breaking strength, do a controlled test.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using quality wood that have few knots and
the correct grain structure is a crucial something to be aware of as well. All
wooden frame scenery that will be flown has to be constructed with rigging in
mind in order to take the stress and load.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The use of wood glue, screws instead of nails and bolts with washers is
a good safe practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the
responsibility of the scenic carpenter and scenic designer to use the right
materials, fasteners and added attention to make sure it is constructed
properly to eliminate any failure. Make it a point before any object is flown
check all rigging points, hardware and the weight of scenery matched with the
appropriate ratings. Routine inspections of hardware and materials should be
done often. Include discussing safety plans with your stage team if something
were to fail so your team will know how to respond. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">For churches that have a line batten systems, having
designated trained individuals that knows what to inspection and how to properly
use, the line batten system is a must. Scenery changes during a live event can
involve moving a ton of weight vertically, in a matter of a few seconds. Some
common knowledge among your team should be, know the lifting capacity of your
line battens. Never stand under counter weighting or under scenery when
hoisting. Call out “clear the rail or area” before loading or hoisting and to
wait for a response that it is “clear” from individuals close to those areas. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">When using secondary rigging such as motorized chain hoists know
how much each chain hoist can safely lift and equally important, how much the
hoist attachment point can support. Have your hoist inspected and tested periodically.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">No one should do stage rigging until they have been
thoroughly trained. Never risk the life of someone based on probably or maybe
safe. If you intend to hang heavy objects over people’s heads, please value doing
it correctly. Visit Willowcreekproduction.org, scenicdesigner.blogspot.com or churchproduction.com
for video tips on rigging and scenic construction in the weeks to come.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="color: #cccccc;">
</span>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-21048726122156314282011-05-19T07:54:00.000-07:002011-05-19T07:54:49.720-07:00COH Scenic Design 2011<div class="MsoNormal"><b>As a scenic designer, it’s always exciting to be involved in creating a beautiful set that is new and significant for a series.</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqg9nT2-09BWxr2bn8J6DVmDW4kG_1urYKWc8sgzgVF4KWWnQonG-EvV7giHA8U_1WJnEtjywEFpTuIWpGE1ALEadmqbkLTkmoMxUzOuxG4BGA3E3E15VR3d3Vaa8Yh-Twpn6uDMorKE/s1600/DSC_0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqg9nT2-09BWxr2bn8J6DVmDW4kG_1urYKWc8sgzgVF4KWWnQonG-EvV7giHA8U_1WJnEtjywEFpTuIWpGE1ALEadmqbkLTkmoMxUzOuxG4BGA3E3E15VR3d3Vaa8Yh-Twpn6uDMorKE/s320/DSC_0089.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Recently, I had the opportunity to design and construct a scenic set for a “three week series” called Celebration of Hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this series, attention was focused on the compassion and justice needs of the poverty stricken in the community and through out the third world with shelter being a key focus. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The challenge in creating this set was showing a representation toward the need for shelter but also create an environment for celebration. In the past several months, thousands of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Willow</st1:place></st1:city> families, staff and volunteers have given countless hours toward serving the needy and had given enormous amounts of financial assistance to help eradicate poverty. Designing a set that was both abstract and surrealistic helped us to achieve the proper balance.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The set materials were made from thin cedar wood siding, red corrugated vinyl, weathered wood from old storage pallets, bamboo poles, rope and 1” pink foam. The entire set was rigged from line sets and supported with 1/16” aircraft cables and gliders. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">To create the “third world feel” and “representation of shelter” there were several techniques involved. The cedar siding was left unpainted, ripped apart and randomly placed in a vertical line. The corrugated red vinyl was lightly sprayed with watered down gray paint to resemble rusty tin and were randomly cut and assembled. The weather boards were randomly attached to the back side of the vinyl to protrude out. The use of two inch diameter rope was a notable addition and was placed above each element to give the impression that it was holding it up. 160 one inch bamboo poles were assembled to form three back wall layers. The foam was painted brown, cut eight inch widths and hot glued together to form the upper appearance of roof lines. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once the scenic elements where in place it became the lighting designers project to enhance the texture and dimension of materials with help from a pallet of gobos, effects and color. The conventional rig comprised of SGM Giotto 400 washes, Martin 2k’s, Vari-Lite 3000 spots and floor support from the Robes LT Series, swaths of saturated color made the larger-than scale scenic environment exceedingly warm and significant. There were times it only took a gesture of light at a side angle or steep angle that made the difference in the world turning the stage into an art form. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The use of video was an excellent addition that helped foster more possibilities toward creativity instead of just static scenery for three weeks. Two 162”x 95” screens allowed for a 16 x 9 video format and two 12k Barco projectors showed the audience the quality and quantity of large-scale color photographs so believable that the screen seemed to disappear.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Strategically placing scenery for several different camera angles can be a challenge. Several layers of scenery were purposely place to add depth and dimension. Captured by camera for IMAG it created a realistic visual experience for 25,000 individuals that attended each weekend.</div><div class="MsoNormal">.<span class="apple-style-span"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Scenic design is a powerful tool that can change the way we view things. It’s essential to spend valuable time on things that will have a redeeming experience. In summary, the key to any successful scenic project is to know the content, uncompromising attention to detail, careful preparation, staying within budget and keeping on schedule for execution. This project followed those guidelines and delivered an unmatched quality, consistency and value that provided a visual cohesion and framed an experience that many will remember. It’s a pretty cool moment when you create a meaningful design that comes to life for the first time knowing it will impact many individuals. A gift offered to God.</div>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-1355357755795447652011-03-04T05:20:00.000-08:002011-03-04T05:20:51.881-08:00A Production Team's Adventure in a Third World Country<div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGG-weZN7gmO7pcoiVYYh_rT4eGrWHqPCcUfoYBzPwB8t1RCbYEpZtx-1oz_c8Ad04m7mcgxbIH4lD2QVF_QaFX8GNzrgMmu8ilfrVPEWmPt2QDea73kGFenziUIN7HUUFwQ_rdmUW7Y/s1600/DSC_2906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGG-weZN7gmO7pcoiVYYh_rT4eGrWHqPCcUfoYBzPwB8t1RCbYEpZtx-1oz_c8Ad04m7mcgxbIH4lD2QVF_QaFX8GNzrgMmu8ilfrVPEWmPt2QDea73kGFenziUIN7HUUFwQ_rdmUW7Y/s200/DSC_2906.JPG" width="200" /></a>Dear friends,</div><div class="MsoNormal">Have you ever dreamed of adventure, doing something that counts with your life, helping people to learn new skills and develop strong friendships along the way while encountering your faith with God? On February 17-22 that dream became a reality for the four of us from the production department at Willow Creek, <st1:place w:st="on">South Barrington</st1:place>. We had an amazing opportunity to partner with two churches, “ICAS and ICC,” in the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dominican Republic</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Not only did we have the opportunity to work along side their team installing new equipment for lighting but we were also able to give extensive leadership training and open dialogue with their staff and volunteers. At the end of the day many commented to us and each other that they were so glad that we had come and that the training was outstanding and edifying; learning things that they had never been taught before. I must say it was a celebration for us all to see and experience how God is working through them. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_UiiFalFwG05MIdD8xqAIUGiS9Swv494UIFWLfJPONb4SZl3hRWEOmbCAZArh-0mXnh2fSCldOj4w_xqt-h5LTA-c-MGa-gRvOCff8ma_fDEb13sYiJ1gtl4yzYicK66AA-DQTA-RN0/s1600/DSC_2840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_UiiFalFwG05MIdD8xqAIUGiS9Swv494UIFWLfJPONb4SZl3hRWEOmbCAZArh-0mXnh2fSCldOj4w_xqt-h5LTA-c-MGa-gRvOCff8ma_fDEb13sYiJ1gtl4yzYicK66AA-DQTA-RN0/s200/DSC_2840.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYf3LUrEX_KhdiWTy1t0XIrmubpeVPywT-WEcR3FoeS2RpLS8pZuVR8oF2QbeSqzTQ2QbmJnkrgmFyv1qh6QgDQ-ItiDeYaiq6kw9ZaVSBM_9q3Vd-ey2lOcBKF0cFNiEAcsgiq3APLNI/s1600/DSC_2800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYf3LUrEX_KhdiWTy1t0XIrmubpeVPywT-WEcR3FoeS2RpLS8pZuVR8oF2QbeSqzTQ2QbmJnkrgmFyv1qh6QgDQ-ItiDeYaiq6kw9ZaVSBM_9q3Vd-ey2lOcBKF0cFNiEAcsgiq3APLNI/s200/DSC_2800.JPG" width="200" /></a>So many incredible things happened on the mission trip that are so difficult to explain. For three of us, this was the first time we’ve visited the <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Dominican Republic</st1:place></st1:country-region>. The city of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Santo Domingo</st1:place></st1:city> and the location of both churches is a complicated and vibrant place. Ironically, within a block or two of these churches there are portions of the city that are wealthy and clean; however, the unbelievably poor sections are side-by-side with the wealthy areas. The streets are lined with vehicles ranging from expensive automobiles carrying nicely dressed business men, to poor ragged street urchins pedaling rusty bicycles carrying case loads of fruit, looking ready to fall apart at any time. As we walked but only a few steps from the ICAS church we saw first hand the deplorable poverty. Many were in small one-room 6’ x 8’structures with dirt floors and cement walls. Most do not have any government assistance. No clean water, no sewerage system, no educational system and no food assistance. People stared at us with a combination of curiosity mixed with a bit of caution. Greeting us was the children who seemed to huddle closer to us, starring up at us with large brown eyes and ear-to-ear grins on their faces. I’m inspired and marvel at both ICC and ICAS energy, effort and focus toward caring for people that do not have much respect or hope. When the church service started we began to see a sea of people swarming the streets around the area of the church grounds, you begin to reflect upon the simple love of God and the poorest of the poor. Seeing ICC and ICAS engaged in all sorts of ministries that serve directly to the needs of the poor within their neighborhood and within the homeless population is awe-inspiring. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 12.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QW18A0njtKhUg1-rW4kMZcZaaQc3IWv6DKMZZsQSGAIqmR96pAomLCQRDVkPUG5QHxRmVknJzjVLQLzaoq_cgpLTXNsYOH1c-Dh25oNZgjosLpWUdS2ll1v0X9uDqrCWZsmi0Rvz6E0/s1600/DSC_2787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1QW18A0njtKhUg1-rW4kMZcZaaQc3IWv6DKMZZsQSGAIqmR96pAomLCQRDVkPUG5QHxRmVknJzjVLQLzaoq_cgpLTXNsYOH1c-Dh25oNZgjosLpWUdS2ll1v0X9uDqrCWZsmi0Rvz6E0/s200/DSC_2787.JPG" width="200" /></a>Can God use your gifts anywhere… you just have to say yes. Going on such short term mission trips like these does change you, the way you view life and even your likes and dislikes are likely to change. It’s funny how God will stretch you. Then about the time you’ve recovered, He does it again. It never gets easier, it just gets crazier. But yeah, that’s adventure. The surprising part is how you find yourself getting hooked on the uncomfortable. We arrived at 11pm in Chicago, very tired but elated, celebrating what we learned and the ways God used our team to make an eternal impact on the lives of so many. There were some tears and there was hope expressed that we would return again. The impact and friendship we made those six days will never be forgotten. It was one of the most fruitful mission trips I have ever experienced.</div><div style="line-height: 12.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 12.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;">Short-term mission trips are a powerful way to have your eyes opened, and your faith strengthened, and you soul refreshed! What could be more invigorating and life-changing than stepping out of your culture; your safety-zone to do something for Christ? </div>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-85049163577270838592011-01-27T14:23:00.000-08:002011-01-27T14:23:35.284-08:00Christmas Stage Turntable Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHydU44QSN605kg_YYVsSH9gXp8pknxl7A57v6kZZVb6NpmzK6G9TofDYXOKaPIHmfn4c5h9mg5A_mpofG_H2hGBu1UgkzmtBFbcGwp22mSKKS2yNyG4Iz-YxSc3kkLWn5BNXEeGQp20/s1600/Turntable+and+stage+construction.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHydU44QSN605kg_YYVsSH9gXp8pknxl7A57v6kZZVb6NpmzK6G9TofDYXOKaPIHmfn4c5h9mg5A_mpofG_H2hGBu1UgkzmtBFbcGwp22mSKKS2yNyG4Iz-YxSc3kkLWn5BNXEeGQp20/s320/Turntable+and+stage+construction.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sPSfrLSeTDHREnhtlq61Gn3gQ5itRIagBD2zBkhxDwtlty-RgXlFJm0ZRaadJfIFZTzmxTeHJ-EP1q-4g80pHPC_1tFdbX1XjFi9RqRzLni7HgWmiAnxdmkI4IdicvPGFXS7AKLWEx8/s1600/Truss.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sPSfrLSeTDHREnhtlq61Gn3gQ5itRIagBD2zBkhxDwtlty-RgXlFJm0ZRaadJfIFZTzmxTeHJ-EP1q-4g80pHPC_1tFdbX1XjFi9RqRzLni7HgWmiAnxdmkI4IdicvPGFXS7AKLWEx8/s200/Truss.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XBe0Jh1MhQ6xdarIdfWBQqQ7jESTvqfBAQ5lPuk_nz41yWUZ3wD_-DVixZVlQPdFiZf8PUEM7J16aX8bOOtCfDH9SSNbJ_Uy8kWAxSZ9M0e7zpJ9RsbbSSKA2Ol81c1WxJlj0lfGTjc/s1600/Field+of+lights+during+worship.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XBe0Jh1MhQ6xdarIdfWBQqQ7jESTvqfBAQ5lPuk_nz41yWUZ3wD_-DVixZVlQPdFiZf8PUEM7J16aX8bOOtCfDH9SSNbJ_Uy8kWAxSZ9M0e7zpJ9RsbbSSKA2Ol81c1WxJlj0lfGTjc/s200/Field+of+lights+during+worship.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUybbFNtHP_lblBEg8FaydeHfHrAqWtayHEqbRXczlH3fCFnFiienQo7Wrb6AgpnQJU95dW2LfuIqFmTUfKkkCPK4mJL6TG4IVkxPVRRaR6OQsfHRW0s8ah4hnPYU3Z1OFXmSVyKWec2U/s1600/Truss+and+Construction+of+second+level.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUybbFNtHP_lblBEg8FaydeHfHrAqWtayHEqbRXczlH3fCFnFiienQo7Wrb6AgpnQJU95dW2LfuIqFmTUfKkkCPK4mJL6TG4IVkxPVRRaR6OQsfHRW0s8ah4hnPYU3Z1OFXmSVyKWec2U/s200/Truss+and+Construction+of+second+level.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrVNkbYm1NL8W12uXhvpy1hMLg-7ZJEej0CihIcw5Jf-I5xwnc5ulQjgH3Oye_0F-gxP-eZkRgBHXMLs5c6_zy9sX5VaQ_ivW64zn9i3ZVtb2rTE8IJ4KtCmJoYnG9FSJF4VzkDKpyeU/s1600/Video+juice+on+stage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrVNkbYm1NL8W12uXhvpy1hMLg-7ZJEej0CihIcw5Jf-I5xwnc5ulQjgH3Oye_0F-gxP-eZkRgBHXMLs5c6_zy9sX5VaQ_ivW64zn9i3ZVtb2rTE8IJ4KtCmJoYnG9FSJF4VzkDKpyeU/s200/Video+juice+on+stage.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Each year at Christmas we</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> create </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">a memorable out</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> reach </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">that draws approximately 70,000 individuals from our surrounding communities. Needless to say, it’s an extremely large</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> undertaking </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">and</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> responsibility </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">on making decisions toward the scenic support. The month of September is noted for one</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> thing </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">with production and programming staff at <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Willow</st1:place></st1:city>, final decisions need to be made toward the Christmas project, so all departments have enough time to</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> develop </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">the Christmas experience. Of course, even after the final </span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">decisions</span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> the revisions are ongoing. There are changes coming down the line as late as a few days before the event. This year, the go button, was pushed at the end of October, which made the</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> scenic construction </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">four weeks late. There was no room for mistakes; no time in the schedule to redo, all of us have to do our homework, to make the design and construction with precision.</span></span><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><br />
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<span class="apple-style-span">An</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> example </span><span class="apple-style-span">of hours spent toward scenic elements can be as high as 2800 hours of</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> construction</span><span class="apple-style-span"> This year 1000 hours were spent toward the 5 scenic elements needed; a 36’round stage with a 24’ motorized turntable incorporated, 1000 small lights placed randomly throughout the auditorium and stage, 5 band wagons, and two 48’ x 23’ video screens. Now taking on any large project like this can be overwhelming. You</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> need </span><span class="apple-style-span">the ability to evaluate,</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> manage </span><span class="apple-style-span">and master scheduling. Then there is the other</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stuff </span><span class="apple-style-span">such as ordering materials, load-in of materials, construction, staying within budget, meetings, and volunteers, any of those can</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> sway </span><span class="apple-style-span">the success or failure of a project, the constraints of staying on time.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">It was decided early on that our main</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> focus </span><span class="apple-style-span">was to be toward the subject of, “Fear Not” as mentioned in the bible from the angel Gabriel to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. A "modern" day story about the birth of Christ was written involving</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> various </span><span class="apple-style-span">actors depicting Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. It was a conscience from the beginning for this to happen the actors and</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> audience </span><span class="apple-style-span">needed to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> feel </span><span class="apple-style-span">an intimate setting, a setting that the audience walks into a real</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> environment </span><span class="apple-style-span">and experiences it. To accomplish this two things were decided upon. First we would</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> create </span><span class="apple-style-span">a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> thrust </span><span class="apple-style-span">stage with a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> surface </span><span class="apple-style-span">that could be drenched with projected video</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> juice </span><span class="apple-style-span">and rotating</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="misspelledwordsalert">gobos</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">to creating movement in every</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="confusedwordsalert">scene</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">as an individual painting. Second, we would</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> create</span><span class="apple-style-span">1000 lights fixtures that can twinkle creating a real field of stars that</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> serve </span><span class="apple-style-span">toward creating an</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> intimate </span><span class="apple-style-span">setting.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">Plans began underway to create a large enough thrust</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">with plenty of room for actors, several musicians and individual singers. The design of a 36’ round stage was an appropriate size and shape as it related to what was needed. Now building a 36’</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> round </span><span class="apple-style-span">platform that is 3’</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> tall </span><span class="apple-style-span">is not that complicated. But when you</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> consider </span><span class="apple-style-span">having to, include</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> concave </span><span class="apple-style-span">areas for audio speaker placement, incorporate a motorized 24' turntable within limited space, and oh did I forget to tell you it had to be in place and finished in a week, so it would not</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> disrupt </span><span class="apple-style-span">our weekend services, these details become a highly complex</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> challenge.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">To</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> create </span><span class="apple-style-span">the thrust</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">over 600 hours was needed to complete it. I decided to make the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> platform </span><span class="apple-style-span">as a portable unit so, we could actually</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> build </span><span class="apple-style-span">the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">in a room behind our existing stage over a 3 week period, instead of trying to cram everything into one week. The platform needed to be a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> standard </span><span class="apple-style-span">wood construction that would be</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> exceedingly strong </span><span class="apple-style-span">to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> support </span><span class="apple-style-span">a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> group </span><span class="apple-style-span">of people, 5 band wagons and the worship team’s instruments. After calculating the weight of the construction materials, the sheer weight of this platform came in at over 18,000 lbs... The challenge was the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> weight </span><span class="apple-style-span">of the platform needed to be under 9,000 lbs. for the casters not to be overloaded and most importantly to be able to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> lift </span><span class="apple-style-span">the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">by motor hoists from our existing</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">onto the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> audience </span><span class="apple-style-span">level three feet down. So, I decided to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> create </span><span class="apple-style-span">a multi-tiered</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> level stage</span><span class="apple-style-span">. We could</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> finish </span><span class="apple-style-span">the first two levels and keep it under 9,000 lbs. The third</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> level </span><span class="apple-style-span">could be finished once it was in </span><span class="apple-converted-space">place</span><span class="apple-style-span">.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="confusingmodifiersalert">The first </span><span class="apple-converted-space">level </span><span class="confusingmodifiersalert">consisted of a 20.5” aluminum truss system to support the enormous weight with tri-casters installed to make it portable.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">The</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> second level </span><span class="apple-style-span">became a subfloor made up of 2x10 joists set up on 16” centers and ¾” plywood for the decking. This was used to support the 3000 lbs metal turntable. Under the belly of this structure, we would create two compartments to house the turntable motor units. Once the floor was finished, we would place 36 casters up at strategic locations to act as support and guides for the track of the turntable. The third</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> level </span><span class="apple-style-span">was also made up of 2x10 joists set up on 16” centers that would match the height of the turntable. Once all was in</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> place</span><span class="apple-style-span">, a ¾” plywood decking and ¾ homasote</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> board </span><span class="apple-style-span">was added to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> create </span><span class="apple-style-span">the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> floor </span><span class="apple-style-span">surface. The</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="misspelledwordsalert">homasote</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> board </span><span class="apple-style-span">was used to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> deaden </span><span class="apple-style-span">the sound of foot traffic and turntable</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> noise</span><span class="apple-style-span">.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">I must say to create a workable</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">turntable that turns at the right</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> speed </span><span class="apple-style-span">and is quite,</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="modif">became</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> quickly problematic</span><span class="apple-style-span">. A scene in the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> drama </span><span class="apple-style-span">script included an actor representing Joseph running away from Mary. The turntable would allow him to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> run </span><span class="apple-style-span">but stay in one place, while video projection makes him look as if he’s running outdoors. Upon preliminary testing, we realized two things, our motors were not fast enough, 1 mph instead of the needed 6</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="misspelledwordsalert">mph</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">and the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> noise </span><span class="apple-style-span">of the motors and casters were extremely</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> loud</span><span class="apple-style-span">. To</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> correct </span><span class="apple-style-span">those issues we used 5” soft rubber casters, instead of hard plastic ones, ordered the corrected gear boxes for our motors and added</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> insulation </span><span class="apple-style-span">in between the joist to</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> deaden </span><span class="apple-style-span">the noise.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">November 29th was an extremely busy</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> day </span><span class="apple-style-span">for us all. Lighting was doing their load-in of rental gear onto the main stage while the construction workers, lifts, and tools were at work on lifting the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">in place and completing the construction. We were constantly battling for a clear</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> space </span><span class="apple-style-span">in order to </span><span class="apple-converted-space">get </span><span class="apple-style-span">our job done on time. On December 3rd.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="capitalletteralert">we</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">finished the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">by giving it a final</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> coat </span><span class="apple-style-span">of light gray paint for video projection.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">The</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> round thrust stage </span><span class="apple-style-span">created a</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="vocabularyalert">nice</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="apple-style-span">relationship between the actors and</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> audience </span><span class="apple-style-span">and changed the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> feel </span><span class="apple-style-span">of the entire auditorium. Everyone was amazed at how realistic the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> texture </span><span class="apple-style-span">of the video content was on the stage surface. With the use of Pandoras Pro Media Server, four Barco FLM 22k projectors, two for the large screens and two for the stage floor surface the brightness and clarity of the video effects was</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> incredible</span><span class="apple-style-span">. The video and lighting imagery powerfully enhanced the experience. The 1000 light star field was stunning. We were extremely pleased with the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> outcome.</span> <br />
<br />
<span class="apple-style-span">So the question is always asked, “Is it too large of an undertaking?”</span> <span class="apple-style-span">How could you ever compare the</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> valuable </span><span class="apple-style-span">results of 70,000 individuals who were indefinitely affected by the testimony of a Christ experience to 1000 hours spent? We are truly humbled to be able to use our gifts toward such a prize as this.</span></span><span style="color: #999999; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-22108538859601079942010-08-26T17:09:00.000-07:002010-08-26T17:09:17.668-07:00Creating Scenic Art<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: silver; font-family: Arial; font-size: 9.0pt;">Visual art is a very powerful form of communication.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 3.0pt;"><br />
</div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 3.0pt;"><span style="color: silver; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8.5pt;">The growing awareness of churches toward using visual art such as scenic elements has opened the doors for opportunity toward impacting individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 3.0pt;"><span style="color: silver; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8.5pt;">From the stand point of using scenic elements, the delusion is, we never think of the impact a few sticks of wood and a few gallons of paint has on inspiring someone’s life. There are times when it’s like holding up a mirror allowing us to see and experience the things we usually stuff in the back corners of our mind. Combining the message with scenic images, are very powerful forms of communication. The saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” That is so true. What takes one thousand words to explain correctly can be describe much more easily using scenic images. One is able to express every aspect of life and its essence through this medium. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 3.0pt;"><span style="color: silver; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8.5pt;">Imagery plays a large roll in making information memorable, an important part of recall. Think about it. When you find yourself in a conversation it’s usually a retelling of a memorable event; things we saw that created a mood, an experience. Scenic images will engage memory and conversation. Let me make it clear, it takes both the threads of verbal and visual for the epiphany to be birthed. Some would say that such things as scenic stuff, which are not harmful, are not as important. Some years ago I would have made that statement. But after witnessing the undeniable results from using scenic elements with teaching moments, my attitude has changed. I will never forget the statement Lee Strobel once made; “It was the message and the beauty of scenic art on stage that melted my hardened, atheistic heart.” The use of scenic elements is a powerful tool.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 3.0pt;"><br />
</div></span></span>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-9958203255511538202010-07-14T14:52:00.000-07:002010-07-14T16:41:00.971-07:00Creating a Temporary Stage Floor<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">The challenge for many churches is creating a scenic design without ruining the existing prefinished hard wood or carpeted stage floors.</span></i></span><br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">Planning a project such as a concert or a special event but your existing floor limits what you can do? A project that requires painting the floor artistically and for it to </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">hold up to abuse</span><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"> from </span></span><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">scenery wagons, heavy equipment or used as attachment points for scenic elements. The challenge for many churches is creating a scenic design without ruining the existing pre finished hard wood or carpeted stage floors. Options can be stressful to consider but there are some simple solutions toward solving this challenge by creating a temporary floor. </span></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">For a floor that does not require much durability, canvass or vinyl could be an option. Light weight and portable it can be rolled out and held in place by gaff tape. Some benefits such as, protecting the exiting floor , being able to create a paint design off location, easy to remove, takes up last space to store and less expensive, is a real plus The draw back is, it can winkle, tear or stretch easily.</span></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">Another option to consider is to lay down sheets of 4’ x 8’ x ¾” hardwood plywood onto the existing floor. Hardwood faced plywood such as oak, maple, birch and blond wood is a good choice toward a painting surface. Grades of plywood such as CDX are difficult to paint out the blemishes because of its softer face. It also has a high moisture content resulting in warp age when not attached to a framing. A good rule of thumb is to start out with a layer of plastic on the floor to protect the existing surface from any paint seeping down the edges of the plywood. Use gaff or carpet tape, applying half on the underneath side of the sheet in such a way that the next sheet will form a bond with the same tape. Advantages are; quick to install and remove, manageable, durable. Disadvantages are; existing floor has to be very level with no unevenness and plywood would need to be hand selected to ensure no warp age.</span></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">For a floor that is conducive to many different types of uses or productions, I recommend constructing 4’ squares from ¾” hardwood plywood attached to a joist frame made from 2” x 4”s. Attaching the plywood to a frame keeps the plywood from curling up and allows attaching each square to each other with a screw positioned at a 45 degree angle close to the edge. Benefits are; durable, stackable, scenery can be attached and cables could be put underneath the flooring. A disadvantage is a sizable height difference (4.25”) from existing floor. Keep in mind if you decide to create a underneath path for cables, most codes requires fire protection. </span></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px;"><span lang="EN"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">I'm sure there are many other ideas that comes with either positive or negative experiences. Would love to hear about your ideas and experiences,creating a temporary floor.</span></span></div>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-37743271948718589962010-06-08T09:59:00.001-07:002010-07-14T16:40:05.316-07:00Stage Floors<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5hqzwLfgOChcfMk_1LwtAjhtXt3Q_Fyb_hIaznTxmvqcFcxFfzj-RkQiM8cVHwcdd1eBRWEW0JeStVCjtSVfmQpvcBFEtBw6wTdNtNeV_6X5CF34mLuPGN_7HpFLTU3-sgB9PU-Oleg/s1600/DSC_1190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5hqzwLfgOChcfMk_1LwtAjhtXt3Q_Fyb_hIaznTxmvqcFcxFfzj-RkQiM8cVHwcdd1eBRWEW0JeStVCjtSVfmQpvcBFEtBw6wTdNtNeV_6X5CF34mLuPGN_7HpFLTU3-sgB9PU-Oleg/s200/DSC_1190.JPG" width="200" /></b></a><span style="font-family: Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">The stage floor may not seem to be a major focus for the audience, from a production stand point it is very major </span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">thing.</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">From platforms, to trap door, wagons, heavy equipment, scenic attachment points, individual traffic, lighting and audio cables, splashes of water from a baptismal, and different elevations’ are challenges we face with our stage floor. During the time our facility has been opened we’ve hosted over 28 conferences, large productions for Christmas and Easter, concerts, graduations and countless productions for weekend series. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">Hmmm, old memories are resurfacing of post traumatic production stress disorder. Focus, take a deep breath. Say, “Everything is going to be ok three times.” </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"> There isn’t any perfect stage floor, including ours that can handle this type of abuse. </span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">This kind of use causes lots of wear that requires touching up, repainting and replacing material periodically.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><br />
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</span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsG4aFaSuIluJF0-roAaUTofXHa0N1MV4Aih7oFsvVBRG8iBLdDdVs_3POimaZ5zCWZ8HyPH-CH0y4veF1JweHxyK20E3I3NEoENL-Lu9fNDQIqnkqihN5R2ACyRGgbg5kebVG8G7kWYQ/s1600/Rubber+cushion.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsG4aFaSuIluJF0-roAaUTofXHa0N1MV4Aih7oFsvVBRG8iBLdDdVs_3POimaZ5zCWZ8HyPH-CH0y4veF1JweHxyK20E3I3NEoENL-Lu9fNDQIqnkqihN5R2ACyRGgbg5kebVG8G7kWYQ/s200/Rubber+cushion.JPG" width="138" /></span></a><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">A good stage floor is composed of many layers. The sub floor is made of soft wood such as pine or plywood. These materials are resilient and tough holding nails and fasteners. W e currently have a sprung floor with MDF, medium density fiberboard, as the top layer. I say currently because we are considering a new surface flooring material ourselves with no solution at hand. The wood floor is built over concrete with a ½” rubber cushion located on the concrete with a 2x4 joist running side ways on the cushion. On top of the 2x4 joists are two layers of ¾” plywood and 1 layer of ¾” MDF for the top finished look. The rubber cushion gives some bounce as an individual is walking across the floor, keeping injury at a minimum. The issue we are having with a cushioned floor is it’s meant for foot traffic not heavy equipment. Using a 4,000 lbs fork lift, a 12,000 lbs Genie lift and 75,000 lbs baptismal when full of water results in the floor surface becoming damaged due to the up and down movement on the rubber cushions. In addition, baptism+ old sin water dripping off of individuals onto MDF = ¾” MDF becoming 1” MDF over night. MDF absorbs water like a sponge. Ask me how I know this? Fortunately, tarps and the stage crew mopping up right after a baptismal service has resulted in less damage. </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">This leads me to say; always consider the variety of different purposes your stage floor will be used for before you create the floor. D</span></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">o plenty of research for the right materials.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-36897819203746712622010-03-27T16:11:00.000-07:002010-03-28T00:01:27.541-07:002010 Family Series, Scenic Design<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaPmMPIefT1IkQgrDcBOFvhH07ylNnr6PU_xSc1_4OoMXgWP0_zEic4JP19obTErnT6otCT245dzNlGp74ZhGR7PcTMYgWLfQ9WDcJoPGp1TNt-e7I89yA24DcLG71L0FNqIApVgK0Ck/s1600/DSC_0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaPmMPIefT1IkQgrDcBOFvhH07ylNnr6PU_xSc1_4OoMXgWP0_zEic4JP19obTErnT6otCT245dzNlGp74ZhGR7PcTMYgWLfQ9WDcJoPGp1TNt-e7I89yA24DcLG71L0FNqIApVgK0Ck/s320/DSC_0376.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<strong>This article is about designing a set for a series focused on family issues for main stage at Willow Creek.</strong> <br />
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At the beginning of this year a six week series began, discussing family issues, entitled, “The 2010 Family Series.” It was the first scenic set of the year and the most challenging set to finish due to the short time frame to complete. Normally, for our weekend series, we schedule seven weeks for designing and the construction process. There are times when seven weeks are not enough time to complete the process, especially when the first weekend set in January and Christmas set in December, compete for the same time. <br />
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For each project, there are meetings with the producer and production team, discussing the content, special needs, values, concepts and approved design. The special needs discussed for this series was this; three guest speakers on three distinctive weekends; two of those would be interviews; large 15’ x 24’ center screen that would be used to display content for our teaching pastor and a 30’ x 18’ baptismal pool, used for baptisms. With both the center screen and the pool combined, 57 feet of space is needed.<br />
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With the information discussed in our meetings the designer begins the process of creating ideas for a scenic design that will create a positive experience for the audience. The design would most likely support the content of the subject but there are times when that may not be practical. One of the most time consuming parts of the process is researching for visual references. Google Images is a great starting place. For this series, I viewed many photos of families in many settings considering the diversity of the audience; singles, divorcees, widows, or married individuals. After about a day of research, an image reminded of something I experienced when I visited Oprah’s studio, on an off day of recording last year. I remember sitting in a chair where the audience sits, thinking about the experience they would encounter at a live show. I began imagining Oprah dealing with some tough issues and the audience anticipation toward learning about answers to the issues. I sensed warmth, intimacy; we’re in this together, security and hope. With those thoughts I saw several creative ideas for a scenic set. What is amazing about this process, a visual triggered an experience that I had forgotten about. We have many creativity ideas stored in our mind; all we need is a key to unlock them.<br />
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One of the first few decisions considered was the scale of the scenic elements and special needs in comparison to our stage size. I decided creating two walls 26 feet wide x 12 feet tall would be ideal. With the 25 feet center screen in its position, this would give us a total width of 77’ of set on a stage that is 92 feet wide. Next placing the baptismal in front of the set meant I needed to locate the set further back. Furthermore, I considered bringing the set closer to the audience to create more of an intimate feel. When considering the scenic elements in different locations lighting positions are considered, locating the scenic set in a position that will not block lighting coverage of set and individuals on stage, such as the band or worship team.<br />
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Upon drawing the walls I decided we needed a touch of God’s creative realism. I have enjoyed many wonderful moments looking at God’s creativity; the sky, the landscape and seasons from my large kitchen window in the mornings. After thinking upon this for a moment, I realized that a simple window entices us to see life beyond our walls. Creating a visual element that would suggest to the audience, God’s creativity is there for us to recognize He's bigger than any issue we face, was important. I began adding large windows within the drawing and placing the video screen behind the windows to generate outdoor landscapes. <br />
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There are many great benefits of a 3D cad drawing. Once drawn, I am able to view site lines, lighting effects and positions from any where in the auditorium and to make decisions on line batten positions, to lift or hold a set in place. The cad software we currently use is called WYSIWYG. It’s a cad designer and lighting designer all in one. With the click of a mouse, I easily made stage placement of the scenic set, pool, and screen that were competing for space. It became obvious the set needed to be in a location where there wasn’t any line battens to support the set. This meant the scenic set needed to be self standing and portable on casters. This would make the set more versatile, allowing us to move it in different positions and locations. Other additions I included were, adding flowing drapery to the windows, and art paintings to the walls to get away from a sterile feel, and 11 – 6 feet x 23 feet canvas panels positioned horizontally and vertically behind and over the scenic set. The panels helped to create upper and lower boundaries and helped mask the video screen that was behind the set windows. Next, I looked at different reflective materials for the walls. Flexibility revolves around choice of construction materials, the approach of construction, and the number of skilled volunteers serving. I decided on a plastic material called Cora Plast, a translucent material that reflects lighting very well. It comes in 4 x 8 sheets; it is light weight, reasonably priced and easy to cut. Another benefit of this product was we did not have to paint the walls for this set. Since it is translucent the lighting designer can explore creative options with light color. The entire walls could change to any color. Remember the scenic designers and the lighting designers are artists that are in this together with the common goal of creating a beautiful scenic portrait. The lighting designer can make or break the look of the set. We have to work closely together to select or avoid certain colors, textures, shadows, and reflections. <br />
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Upon completion of the drawing, my next meeting was to discuss the scenic elements with the producers and lighting designer. This was an important next step meeting. We reviewed the overall look of the set, budget, sight lines of audience, camera angles, entrances for the worship team and band placement. For this set, there were no changes and was given the approval to complete. When you figure out the big idea, you realize your drawing has led you to a solution, a solution that will connect the audience to an experience significant to the content. It’s always a gratifying moment, knowing God will be glorified by the connection.Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3080889124959883516.post-54534033187744003452010-03-27T12:30:00.000-07:002010-07-14T16:37:55.313-07:00Choices We Make<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon3CdzJoXzEoAtwHLt0zRVG_zlim733fFi0fPAFljm0jsh-v6CXDja9rEAt4li5UyKAmtMJDUS_KygPl81dvXAQJPbjmb36gr2pc__UfO4DBzN5O_V1tRZ6KcLssjPGpgRwGIJbbrg04/s1600/DSC_0487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><img border="0" height="133" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhon3CdzJoXzEoAtwHLt0zRVG_zlim733fFi0fPAFljm0jsh-v6CXDja9rEAt4li5UyKAmtMJDUS_KygPl81dvXAQJPbjmb36gr2pc__UfO4DBzN5O_V1tRZ6KcLssjPGpgRwGIJbbrg04/s200/DSC_0487.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">Over the years I've thought of many creative ideas. In fact I have an endless amount of collected ideas that have been in the closet of my mind for many years. The fact is, generating ideas is the easy part. The hard part is, how can those ideas become reality. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">Here are some thoughts toward the challenge.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">1. The ideas that will be easier to birth are the ones that your passionate about. Motivation is the key.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">2. Execute the idea. Spend time toward organizing how to accomplish the project. Focus, set goals and time lines.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;">3. There is something to be said about bouncing ideas off other people. Community with like minded people not only stirs the creative process but also opens the door to accountability.</span>Glenn Davishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06623978665299580280noreply@blogger.com0