In an historical connection, Dan Riley from DWR Distribution, was involved with the installation of the Market Theatre's first desk - a Compact 80 - when he worked there as a technician in the early 1970s. Some 33 years later, he was more than delighted to present them with a slightly newer model... a grandMA2 ultra-light.
Carl Johnson, production manager at the Market reports that various issues influenced their decision to go with MA. "The majority of the theatres/companies that we receive, and also those we send productions to are utilising or migrating to grandMA technology, including some of our international partners. Many Lighting Designers with whom we work regularly speak very favourably about the grandMA, the software has a great reputation for stability and updates are implemented on schedule."
The grandMA2's first show will be the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival (lighting design by Nomvula Molopo) headlined by noted American singer Phil Perry.
Comments Molopo, "We have been getting along perfectly with the console. We are happy and really enjoy using it. The moving lights are easy to programme, and recording and saving cues and effects is very straightforward. We like everything about it."
Plans are also in the pipeline to develop the Market's sound and lighting capabilities across all three of its existing venues. "The Market has a well earned reputation for producing great South African Theatre - and this motivates us to make more." says Carl Johnson.
(Jim Evans)
