Lighting rigging is a term that describes the many ways in which light and sound are placing on the stage to create drama and emotion. It is one of the most important elements in performing arts. This is because the right lighting will help you convey the mood that you want to express. With proper lighting, you can tell a story about the stage that you are performing in. For instance, a dark setting for drama will be conveyed by having a dark magician or a mysterious villain holding a candle and a mirror above him.
Lighting rigging is created using multiple lighting fixtures that are strategically placed around the stage. These lighting fixtures should be positioned in such a way to make it impossible for anyone on the stage to have a clear view of them. The lighting fixtures should form a well-balanced pattern on the stage. The position and direction of these lighting fixtures should be planned well in advance. Some of the main lighting fixtures used in the rigging are:
Lighting bars: These are basically the longest wires that the stage can have. These are usually between eight and ten feet high. They consist of two to four lighting bars that are placed in either front or behind the performers. A lighting bar usually has three different levels. These levels increase in height until they reach the ceiling.
Hanging lanterns and floating lanterns: These are the most commonly used stage lighting fixtures. They are usually eight to ten feet high and have two to three levels. Hanging lanterns and floating lanterns are often seen being used for weddings.
Suspended boom: A boom is another common lighting plan. It is sometimes called a suspension boomed. This is a long piece of wire that is rigging in place. It extends from the floor to some 100 feet above the audience.
The three main types of rigging systems are standing, free and suspended booms. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages. A suspended boom is the easiest system to use because you do not have to stop the lighting equipment in order to adjust it. If you are not comfortable rigging the lighting equipment then you can always take your hands and move them around and find the best place to place each light bar. You will also find that some of the best light bars are located at the bottom.
Parcans: Parcans are a type of moving lights that move in various directions. The rigging system is built into the canister and is moved by the wire through the pulley system. There are many advantages to using parcans as props; they are versatile, very movable, and give the illusion of infinite space.
Tank Traps: The tank traps are some of the most unique pieces of lighting equipment. There are three types of tank traps; the boom base, mounted boom arm, and the arm. They all attach to a metal plate and are used to create a realistic looking platform, or base for stage displays.
Boom Bases: The boom bases are the most versatile and widely used props for stage performances. They are typically made of a hard plastic material. The boom base can be extended and retracted in different ways depending on what type of display you are planning on displaying. Most boom bases are circular and have an opening large enough for the performers to exit the stage.
Two Stage Bodies: There are two basic types of body used in booms; the stand up boom arms and the fixed booms. Stand up booms are ideal for use with small groups of people. For large groups, it is recommended that you use the fixed booms. The stand up booms are ideal for high quality entertainment where there is a lot of movement. Once the audience becomes familiar with the lighting, the stand up booms can be removed from the stage and allowed to perform on their own. They do not require any additional lighting equipment and lighting them does not impede on the actual show.
Telescopic Stand Up Lighting: The Telescopic stand up lighting plan consists of multiple arms that reach up and down from the ceiling. Each arm has four lanterns at different heights. The arms have a hinge so they can be opened and closed. The overall design is like a large set of stairs.
Determining The Location Of The Dining Area: In the design of the retractable or the Telescopic stand up lantern, the location of the dining area must be considered. The position of the lantern in relation to the stage allows for good viewing. You also want to place the lantern where you can see the entire stage from the dining table. The location where the stage is situated should also be taken into consideration. In many cases, the same spot works well regardless of the arrangement of the lanterns; however, if you wish to have something that blends in or is out of the way, it can be important to place a lantern in one spot and to put a fixed object in another.
