Chauvet creates tungsten look for Pixies
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Looking at the three evenly spaced rows and columns of four different fixtures types on his touring rig, Mangino observed “I’ve found the best way to achieve the extreme asymmetrical looks I use with Pixies is to start with a symmetrical design.”
Prominent in this neatly arranged matrix of lights are 24 Chauvet Professional STRIKE 1 fixtures, flown eight units apiece on the three rows of truss. True to Mangino’s vision, the 230W single source warm white pod fixtures create a beguiling variety of asymmetrical looks, continuously lighting up in different configurations and chasing patterns, strobing, glowing softly at different levels for scenic effects, and then bumping up to an intense output.
“The Pixies sound is the original ‘loud quiet loud,’” said Mangino. “So, I often bring up the full bank of STRIKE 1s for the big, loud parts, but they are focused down at the stage, like upstage par cans, not as blinders.”
Beyond the asymmetrical patterns they create, the STRIKE 1 fixtures also add another element to Mangino’s show, one that is especially important to reflecting what the Pixies are all about musically: they bring the warm glow of tungsten to the stage.
Creating the feeling of tungsten has long been an integral part of Mangino’s design for his client. “Tungsten has been a key to the Pixies look since I first started designing for them in 1986,” he said. “Our overall look can be defined as tungsten, CTO and smoky, with deep angles, extreme saturations, and dynamics.
“This is a 22-point show at the larger venues on the tour,” continue Mangino. “My tech Chris Pedersen and I rig and put it all up every day on our own in under three hours. Our success in achieving this is due to his meticulous prep, organizational skills, and drive to have the rig perfect every time. I am very lucky to have him travel with me around the world.”
The 80 fixtures in Mangino’s rig, including the STRIKE 1 units were supplied by Lite Alternative, and will be traveling with the tour on its entire European run. In 2020 the same rig, this time supplied by See Factor, will be used on the US leg of the tour. After that the rig will be lighting Pixies in Australia and Asia.
(Jim Evans)
