| Intermediate Technology Education | Control Technology | Design Stage 2 | Topic 6 | Optional Activity 9 |

Stage Lighting Control

Good lighting is essential for the successful presentation of a play or musical event. Modern theatres and stadiums use high power lights which are controlled with interface circuits and computers.
  • Become familiar with the function and purpose of a computer control device.
  • Learn how to connect a lamp to the control device.
  • Learn how to use a software program to control pre-set light patterns and changes for stage lighting.
 

Stage Lighting

Modern stage lighting techniques evolved from kerosene lamps and carbon arc spotlights. In stage plays, each scene requires a certain pattern of lights with varying intensities. When the scene changes, the light pattern must change smoothly especially if the action is live.

Lighting at major musical events follows the same concept but is usually executed on a much larger scale. Here, large numbers of lights and lasers must be switched and intensities changed to maximize the impact of the presentation.

Today, solid state electronics under the control of computer hardware and software can store and run pre-set programs which control the various light patterns needed throughout the act.


Figure Strand 300 Series Console

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