Bandit backs Sugarland’s return
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Bandit Lites provided the lighting package for the production. Lighting designer Chris Lisle and associate designer and programmer Erik Parker utilised lighting fixtures that would complement the ‘big top’ circus set. Prior to their hiatus, Sugarland was known for big sets and dynamic shows, and Lisle knew this production needed to be no different.
“From the moment house lights go down and the band takes the stage until the lights come back up, the goal is to transport the audience to a new place, a happier world full of love and unity,” explained Parker. “This design was very intentional with how each piece was used. Each fixture was placed in a way to compliment the overall look while simultaneously adding lighting pizzazz and keeping it relevant and fresh throughout the show.”
Using five lighting spokes connected by a fabric facia to create the circus look, projections feature looks that range from the traditional red and white stripes to a moon-lit sky. A flown half circle connects the spokes with two more sitting upright on the floor lined with Rogue RH1 fixtures to create angles and beams.
“Scenically, we brought many different and interesting textures from traditional ropes like you would find in an old theatre, to a star drop behind a translucent silver, riser facias and several other random pieces to provide just enough chaos onstage that it begins to bring the feeling of joy back as you were a child going to the circus for the first time,” Parker said.
Bandit Lites supplied VL 3000 Spots, VL 3500 Washes, Elation Colour Chorus 72, Chauvet Rogue RH1 Hybrid and MAC Auras, and Parker’s skill with programming elicited looks that ranged from fun, animated experiences to quiet, poignant moments.
“Tour Manager Jordan Powell, production manager Mark Miles and Chris Lisle are the true heroes of this project,” said Bandit Lites vice president Mike Golden. “Their leadership and attention to detail has made this tour as smooth as any I have been involved with and the crew has handled every curveball with ease.”
Bandit’s crew for the tour includes lighting director Daniel Rehbein, lighting crew chief Cody Cheatham and lighting techs Chris Noll and Savannah Harden.
(Jim Evans)
