They also needed a fixture that could handle the versatility of the PBR's weekly televised competitive events, which are "more akin to a rock 'n roll show with beef," says Cullen. Held in major indoor sports arenas like Madison Square Gardens and the American Airlines Centre in Dallas, the shows are full-scale productions that feature not only cowboys and bull riding, but also music and special appearances by guest artists.
"We never know when a major artist will stop by - or what we'll be doing in our shows. So we have to be very, very flexible (with lighting)," notes Cullen, whose guests have included Jewel, Clay Walker, Daughtry and Charlie Daniels. In addition to illuminating musical performances, the PBR relies on automated lights to "fill the arena with gobos and colors" as the audience walks in, and to spotlight cowboys and dignitaries during the opening introductions.
Cullen found what he was looking for in the Power Spot 700 II from Elation Professional. A powerful 700W DMX moving head, the Power Spot 700 II features CMY colour mixing and is loaded with effects and features, including three gobo wheels, two colour wheels, a 14°-23° linear zoom, variable Frost, Iris with narrow to wide beam (4%-100%), Prism and Strobing.
(Jim Evans)
