"The Tempest was a very large and important project for us, and changing to a new lighting console as we moved onto stage was cause for trepidation," commented production manager Patrick Curtis from the Baxter. "The grandMA, under the capable fingers of Nick Britz from DWR Distribution, responsible for MA Lighting in South Africa, performed faultlessly, and we have had a smooth run ever since."
The Baxter also needed to replace consoles in their Concert Hall. With lighting needs not as demanding, a smaller console was sufficient and they opted for a grandMA pico. "The grandMA pico will form a valuable backup function, although not linked via network," said Curtis. "It also makes sense to have the same make of console especially the same way of operation and syntax in a building where our technicians move from venue to venue."
The Tempest, in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), will be moving to the UK. "The entire South African cast, musicians and most of the crew will be moving to a four week season in Stratford-upon-Avon, followed by a six week tour of British cities.
(Jim Evans)
