The workhorse of the massive automated lighting system, set to be the largest single automated lighting system ever assembled for a single event, and the largest Martin rig ever, is Martin's MAC 2000 Wash and new MAC 2000 Wash XB moving head luminaires.
Martin will be the largest automated lighting manufacturer represented at the Beijing Olympic Ceremonies with more Martin MAC 2000 Wash luminaires in use than any other single fixture in the lighting system. Most of the MAC luminaires will be rigged in the roof of the stadium with several hundred lining an upper balcony. Lighting design is by Chinese LD Sha Xiaolan with main lighting supply by China Central Television (CCTV). Lighting sub-suppliers include Chinese company Beiao, among others. Lighting personnel began initial installation of the fixtures already in March with programming inside the stadium to take place in June.
The Martin fixtures will remain in place for the Beijing Games' Closing Ceremonies on August 24th and subsequent Paralympic Games to be held from September 6-17. An additional 800 Martin fixtures will be used for an Opening Ceremony at an alternate site in Tsingtao (Qingdao), home to sailing events.
Christian Engsted, Martin Professional CEO, commented: "We are honoured to again play an integral role in the staging of the world's most prestigious sporting event. The MAC 2000 Wash's extremely high output and long throw capability coupled with its proven reliability make it ideal for such a large scale event. Martin's position as an industry leader with an extensive global reach allows us to deliver in these record breaking quantities while our support network provides 100% on-site backing throughout the course of the event."
(Claire Beeson)
