Billington needed an automated lighting package with a colour system to pull off the illusion. The VL3000 Spot luminaires allow him to create "water" to light the air and scenery. "Most of the activity is supposed to take place underwater," he explained. "So it was a challenge to be able to get water ripples that could change colour and be bright enough. The Vari*Lite fixtures are used for everything - gobo and template washes, scenery and effects. They aren't used specifically for lighting the performers, but rather for creating the atmosphere."
The proscenium opening at the Nautilus Theatre was brought down to a width of 60ft for the show, and the stage is approximately 70ft deep. Some of the VL3000 Spot luminaires are hung as far as 130ft away from the stage, and the overhead units are at 30ft. With a multitude of scenic elements and painted drops, it was critical that Billington had the appropriate equipment to light the enormous space. Vari*Lite dealer LSD/Fourth Phase provided the lights for permanent installation at the venue.
"Sea World wanted it to look like a Broadway musical, and I think we have succeeded," said Billington. The intensity of the VL3000 Spot luminaires was the ultimate factor in Billington's decision to use the new units. Because of the size of the venue, intensity was crucial: "They're so bright I can't always run them at 100 per cent," said Billington. "The intensity is just incredible. I've been using the overhead fixtures zoomed all the way out, which makes them the right intensity. The zoom is terrific, the colour-mixing is excellent, and they are the brightest automated fixture I've ever seen."
(Lee Baldock)
