Lighting designer Paul Hoffman created the design using the band's fall touring rig with "embellishments". Two long curved trusses stretched out over the audience to give the lighting more reach as well as accommodate the special effects like pyro and confetti.
Equipment included Vari*Lite 3000 Spots, Clay Paky Sharpys, GLP X4S's, Martin MAC 101s, Bandit 5x5s, Bandit GRN Pars, GrandMA2 Consoles, a 60" mirror-ball, and 2-lights. Additional video equipment included a video screen of Mirage Panels and Maxedia video servers.
"As always I'm going for equipment that provides me a broad range of capability while still providing a high-quality elegant light," explained Hoffman. "VL3000s have been my fixture of preference for years now but I am very impressed with the size and capability of the GLP X4S. I have actually replaced my lekos for the first time since 2009 - now I can adjust them on the fly when guests are invited on stage. In addition, truss-climbing and conventional dimmers are no longer a part of our picture."
With a tight schedule following Widespread Panic's fall tour and in need of a rig for not one, but two different concerts, Bandit worked with Paul to expand the design of the touring rig.
"Bandit, as always, did an excellent job of pulling off both shows - with even a little bit of equipment being shared between them over the two nights," said Hoffman. "Strong credit should go to Dizzy Gosnell, Shawn Lear, Wayne Lotoza, Andy French and Sarah Eucker."
Dizzy Gosnell, of Bandit said, "The live shows for Widespread Panic are legendary for their total immersive quality in sound and visuals, and Paul yet again conjured up a design that produced truly spectacular lighting looks. This system was not at all massive in current arena tour terms, but the way he gets the most out of each light on the rig is really impressive, and should be a benchmark for young LD's to observe and learn from."
(Jim Evans)
