Both shows were programmed by David Arch, who coincidentally programmed the first Wholehog 2 console on Broadway in 1997 for the stage show, The Life (an honour he shares with Christian Choi). He says: "I choose Hog iPC for a few reasons. The shows were over four universes but under eight which meant no slow down in iPC processing speed. Because the Hog iPC is a new product, it's fully supported. Its compact size is great for small Broadway control booths. Plus, when it comes to viewing a lot of information quickly and easily the Hog contents screen is still one of the best."
One overall reason to use Hog iPC, especially running on Hog2 software, he adds, is its familiarity with Broadway electricians and production crews. "It's a big issue," he says. "Someone has to run the show, which may run for years after I've programmed it. If they want to rehang a light or change anything, it helps for people to know how to use the console without worrying about training."
LD Brian MacDevitt and master electrician Jimmy Fedigan are the team lighting the Oprah Winfrey production, The Color Purple, based on the Pulizer Prize winning novel by Alice Walker that opened 1 December at the Broadway Theatre in NYC. Music Producer is Quincy Jones and the lighting supplier is PRG.
LD Kenneth Posner designed Lestat, playing at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco. It moves to Broadway's Palace Theatre in March. Based on the Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice, the show features the music of Elton John and Bernie Taupin. The lighting team includes production electrician Jimmy Maloney and console operator Andy Catron. Lighting supplier is PRG.
Arch has programmed other current Broadway shows including Fiddler on the Roof and Sweet Charity, both using Wholehog control products. Besides Lestat, Arch is set to work on the Johnny Cash revue, Ring of Fire, opening on Broadway in the new year.
(Chris Henry)
