MDG ATMe haze generators tap into 42nd Street
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This production, with ‘Sheena Easton in the starring role, makes the most of the stage area which is packed with props, sets and a huge cast. It was obvious from the start that a haze generator was required that could easily deal with the enormous stage space, for the entire show, without compromising the performances or the extensive lighting rig supplied by White Light.
MDG’s ATMe haze generator proved ideal for the job. “I first came across MDG about 10 years ago on a show in South Africa,” says Declan Randall, associate LD to 42nd Street’s lighting designer, Peter Mumford. “I was so impressed with the haze that I went backstage to investigate what they were using. I’ve been a fan ever since.” Mumford and Randall opted to use two of the ATMe units - next-step developments from the ever-popular MDG Atmosphere - because of its more efficient power consumption and increased output, which it combines with a high level of controllability.
“On a show like this with high production values we could have chosen pretty much whatever we wanted,” continues Randall, “but as far as I’m concerned, MDG is the go-to manufacturer and the one to use whenever possible.
“Aside from the energy and output benefits, the ATMe has the added improvement of total 0-100% variable output which you can control via DMX/RDM, and a 100% duty cycle. On 42nd Street the generators are required to run for the entire show, so having machines that can maintain their output consistently is vital.”
Mumford adds: “I'm delighted with the performance of the ATMes which I find create a haze that just lights the beams without looking like the ‘bacon’s burning’, if you know what I mean,” he says. “I also appreciate the fact that they cause much fewer issues when it comes to performers complaining about ‘stuff in the air’. That can be quite an issue, especially in the opera world.”
“The use of CO2 in hazers is not an issue these days,” concludes Randall. “Stage and production managers are more familiar and comfortable with the rules and regulations involved. Good haze delivery can make the difference between a good light show and a great light show, so the relevant proper planning of hazers should be as important as every other ingredient in the design. A great haze result is when no-one notices it’s there.”
(Jim Evans)
