LIPA invests in MAC Encore Performance
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Commissioned by Paul Halgarth, lecturer in lighting, electrics and programming at LIPA, and supplied by Martin by Harman dealer Stage Electrics, the new fixtures will enable students on the Theatre and Performance Design and Technology degree courses to access the latest technology.
Halgarth says: “We always need the latest technology and we pride ourselves in having industry standard equipment. It’s vital as students can go from our course straight into employment.
“I specifically wanted units with framing shutters because we didn't have any,” he continues. “Stage [Electrics] were extremely helpful and I looked at all the leading [competitive] brands as well as the Martin MAC Viper and MAC Quantum.
“I really wanted to go down the LED route. I dismissed some as being unsuitable, and while the MAC Viper ticked all the boxes, and I felt had an intense quality of light and stunning deep contrast when using textured gobos, I knew it would be great if we could have an LED source. And that’s when Rob told me to hold on.
“The Encores are already on our first production and the reaction from students has been immensely positive.”
The new units will be available for use not only in the Paul McCartney Auditorium and Sennheiser Studio Theatre, which have been part of the Institute’s fabric since it opened in 1996, but also a new studio theatre at LIPA that is due to open in 2019.
(Jim Evans)
