TurboRay dazzles on Strictly debut
- Details
“It seemed the ideal opportunity to showcase TurboRay’s possibilities,” says Strictly lighting designer, David Bishop. “Westlife were performing a medley of their hits, which allowed for full use of the fixture’s various tricks. And, being so powerful, TurboRay stood out well in the visually ‘busy’ environment of the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.”
Strictly has been visiting the famous ballroom since the show first began in 2004. It’s a massive highlight of the show’s run every year and it’s the aim of many of the celebrities “to make it to Blackpool”, but relocating the show from its Elstree Studios home is not without its challenges.
“Our Blackpool outside broadcast is always a tricky week,” says Bishop. “We take our show, which has been running in a set-standing stage for two months, and have to produce a show of equal complexity on location in just five days. Within this, the guest act is provided just 30 minutes of setup and rehearsal time; then is struck out in order to record a different section, and rebuilt and recorded in just 20 minutes.”
Despite the production conditions, Bishop was pleased with the result. “I enjoyed the TurboRay's contribution and really appreciate the support that High End Systems gave in bringing a new fixture to feature on the show.”
(Jim Evans)
