Sydney-based Laservision Macro-Media was commissioned by the Hong Kong Tourism Commission last August to draw up a harbour lighting report. The report was wide-ranging, and covered the architectural lighting of Hong Kong’s landmark buildings (as well as opportunities for regular lighting shows in Victoria Harbour), the inclusion of a night-time attraction, and an assessment of current lighting pollution. As a result of the report, the Hong Kong Tourism Commission promptly decided to showcase some of the lighting techniques to be employed under Laservision’s plan during the Chinese New Year holidays. China Light and Power agreed to offer sponsorship to ensure the trial became a reality.
During the one-week celebration, the Laservision crew (led by executive producer Simon McCartney and technical director Peter Milne) transformed Hong Kong’s Cultural Centre building into a canvas for a 14-minute show incorporating scenic projection, intelligent lighting (designed by LD John Rayment) and laser animation - synchronized to a sound score, also produced by LMM.
Martin Professional MAC 2000s and Exterior 600s provided the core elements of the lighting system, bolstered by searchlights, dataflashes and a Laservision laser system, whilst seven E/T/C PIGI projectors handled the artwork and a Turbosound speaker system provided sound reinforcement. Laservision’s own Sinodial-Series show control system pulled the various elements together.
All of the creative materials for the show were produced in Laservision’s Sydney studio. The setting up of the show involved the largest crane Laservision could find in Hong Kong. The 160 tonne crane enabled the crew to position and later dismantle the equipment from the roof of the building, which towers 60 metres from the ground. The piazza and the marine deck in front of the Cultural Centre were easily turned into viewing galleries for the vast numbers of people who came to watch the spectacular.
