XL Video's Malcolm Mellows was contacted by audio-visual specialist and programmer Graham English, with whom he has worked on previous projects. English was asked onboard by Abulafia to design and produce artwork and images for the show, working alongside designer Isla Shaw. XL's other recent work in theatre and the performing arts contributed to their recommendation as equipment supplier.
The projection surface is a simple, upstage 'stonework' set piece, providing abstract drama, location and time references, snapshots into current and past events plus video surtitles - the opera is sung in native Spanish.
Budget was tight, however the projection was a vital component of the show's visuals. Projectors comprise two Barco G5s, rigged on the front of the circle, fed by two laptops running PowerPoint presentations all tech'd by XL's Kevin Parry. Malcolm Mellows said: "I'm delighted to be involved in a production of this calibre. The requirement was for extremely precise projection. Props are minimal, and so video is playing an absolutely crucial role, in this moving and important work."
The show kicked off in Norwich at the Theatre Royal and will also play Bath and Buxton festivals.
(Sarah Rushton-Read)
