Martin fixtures in the ring for Big Apple Circus
- Details
In 2017, the circus was purchased by BigTop Works, who decided to update Big Apple’s traditional circus presentation to a Broadway-like spectacle. Management hired veteran Broadway lighting designer Jeff Croiter to create a bold and modern lighting design for the revamped show. Partnering with lighting vendor Christie Lites, Croiter designed a powerful and versatile lighting rig that features a range of Martin lighting solutions, including Martin MAC Axiom Hybrid fixtures, MAC Aura washes, and MAC Viper Profile fixtures.
"We wanted the show to look incredibly stylized and sleek, like a modern circus - but not dark or uninviting," said Croiter. "Martin fixtures were a key part of the lighting design, and their versatility and durability were really helpful in creating the vibe that the circus wanted."
Croiter's design includes numerous Martin by Harman fixtures, including six Mac Axiom Hybrid, 28 MAC Aura, 32 MAC Viper Profile, three MAC Quantum Profile, and three MAC III Profile. The fixtures are deployed in groups of six and four, on each of the four main tent poles. Fixtures are also hung on a suspended ring and accompanying truss that surrounds the poles, as well as three follow-spot platforms.
"The circus is in a tent and the audience seated is in the round," Croiter said. “Each of the four tent poles or masts has a series of MAC Auras and MAC Vipers that are used to light the ring. Some are hung low so that they can shoot straight up and light the tent, turning it in to a giant cyclorama."
“The Christie Lites team was honoured to partner with Jeff to provide a versatile and powerful Martin lighting rig for the historic Big Apple Circus,” said Chris McMeen, sales representative at Christie Lites. “The Axiom Hybrid, Viper Profile, and MAC auras offer a stellar combination of precision and power, and we’re excited to continue supporting the Big Apple Circus for years to come.”
(Jim Evans)
