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X-Real-To: stagecraftlist [at] theatrical.net Received: by prxy.net (CommuniGate Pro PIPE 4.2.10) with PIPE id 34248846; Sat, 02 Sep 2006 03:01:01 -0700 X-Spam-Level: X-Spam-Checker-Version: SpamAssassin 3.1.3 (2006-06-01) on localhost X-Spam-Status: No, score=-3.3 required=5.0 tests=ADVANCE_FEE_1,AWL,BAYES_00, NO_RECEIVED,NO_RELAYS autolearn=ham version=3.1.3 X-ListServer: CommuniGate Pro LIST 4.2.10 List-Unsubscribe: List-ID: Message-ID: From: "Stagecraft" Sender: "Stagecraft" To: "Stagecraft" Precedence: list Subject: Stagecraft Digest #934 Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2006 03:00:22 -0700 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" Content-Disposition: inline X-TFF-CGPSA-Version: 1.4 X-prxy-Spam-Filter: Scanned For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- Stagecraft Digest, Issue #934 1. Re: [user_group] Battery Question by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 2. Re: Speaking of Magazines by "Bill Nelson" 3. Re: Tasty. by "Bill Nelson" 4. Re: casters by Stephen Litterst 5. Re: [user_group] Battery Question by "Jason Salvatori" 6. Re: Fire Curtain Issues by "Bill Conner" 7. Cue lights? by "Wild, Larry" 8. Re: [user_group] Battery Question by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 9. Re: Cue lights? by "Jon Ares" 10. Re: Tasty. by Clive Mitchell 11. Re: Cue lights? by Stephen Litterst 12. Re: Cue lights? by Bruce Purdy 13. Re: Cue lights? by "Brian Munroe" 14. Re: Cue lights? by John McKernon 15. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by adrianvanstagecraft [at] mac.com 16. Re: Cue lights? by "Laura McMeley" 17. Re: Building A better Moon Box by Jerry Durand 18. Re: Cue lights? by "Jason Salvatori" 19. freezing lamps by Judy 20. Freezing Dance Floor (slightly OT) by Anna 21. Stage boxes by "Robert Napoli" 22. Re: Cue lights? by Michael Heinicke 23. Re: Stage boxes by Anna 24. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by "ladesigners [at] juno.com" 25. Re: Battery Question by Richard Wright 26. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by "Bill Nelson" 27. Battery Question by "Don Rowe" 28. Re: [user_group] Re: Battery Question by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 29. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by Pat Kight 30. I need tree drops by Philip Johnson 31. Re: Battery Question by "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" 32. I need tree drops by Philip Johnson 33. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by adrianvanstagecraft [at] mac.com 34. Re: I need tree drops by Steve Larson 35. Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out by "Bill Nelson" 36. EZ Trim rope by Michael Heinicke 37. Re: I need tree drops by "Bill Nelson" 38. Re: I need tree drops by Philip Johnson 39. Re: EZ Trim rope by Bill Sapsis 40. Re: I need tree drops by "CATHERINE BRUMM" 41. Re: Black Box Paint by "Bill Nelson" 42. Re: EZ Trim rope by Steve Shelley 43. Re: Black Box Paint by Stephen Litterst 44. Re: Black Box Paint by "ladesigners [at] juno.com" 45. Re: EZ Trim rope by "ladesigners [at] juno.com" 46. Re: Black Box Paint by 47. Re: Tasty. by CB 48. Re: Battery Question by Jerry Durand 49. Cheap data logging by Jerry Durand 50. Re: Stage boxes by "Occy" 51. Re: Battery Question by frankwood95 [at] aol.com 52. Re: Tasty. by Clive Mitchell 53. Re: Cue lights? by frankwood95 [at] aol.com 54. Re: Cue lights? by David Duffy 55. Re: Freezing Dance Floor (slightly OT) by "Laura McMeley" 56. Re: Speaking of Magazines by Eddie Kramer 57. Re: Battery Question by Clive Mitchell 58. Re: Black Box Paint by "Jon Ares" 59. Re: Cue lights? by John Bracewell 60. Re: Battery Question - test device by StevevETTrn [at] aol.com 61. Re: Battery Question - test device by Jerry Durand 62. Re: Battery Question - test device by "Don Rowe" 63. Ballet for the big boys by "Bruce Lehnus" 64. Re: Cue lights? by seanrmc [at] earthlink.net 65. Re: Ballet for the big boys by Herrick Goldman 66. Re: Cue lights? by David Duffy *** Please update the subject line of your reply to use the subject *** line of the message you are replying to! Please only reply to *** one message subject in each reply. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: [user_group] Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 07:40:15 -0400 Message-ID: <048001c6cdbb$648c42d0$7f9bfea9 [at] p3m866> In-reply-to: Duracell datasheets are available here: http://www.duracell.com/procell/productdata/ For competing Enegizer batteries, specs are here: http://data.energizer.com/DataSheets.aspx There's some basic comparison information here: http://www.energizer.com/learning/comparisons.asp In my experience (personal opinion only), any premium brand alkaline battery will perform as you need/expect -- the variations are slight. For me, "Premium brand" includes the store branded batteries from, say, Walmart -- they're most likely a repackaged premium brand. Many of the knock-off batteries from China are bad news, particularly the non-alkaline ones with a copper-top design. They aren't Duracell, aren't alkaline, are sometimes slightly the wrong dimensions, frequently leak, and often expand in use so they get stuck in flashlight barrels or other contained battery compartments. The one brand name I've had a lot of bad luck with is Panasonic. I've experienced the same problems with them as described above. Jim RC4 > I am a very new subscriber to this list, and also new to > audio work. My school is about to resupply our battery stock > for the rest of this year. I was wondering if there is a big > difference between duracell AA and Procell AA batteries. > I've heard that they are made in the same factory by the same > process, so is there any real difference that make the prices > worth while? > I'm sorry for the basic nature of this questiom, hope it > hasnt ben asked 1000000 times already. ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1519.205.215.255.249.1157111306.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References: Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 04:48:26 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: Speaking of Magazines From: "Bill Nelson" >>No, but Chroma-key Blue should be the color of choice for screens. = >>green screen is evil and should be outlawed by congress? I have a friend who made a short science fiction movie a couple of decades ago. He chose "Blarney Green" as the Chroma-key color. Unfortunately, the colors of the spacesuits were blue and yellow. That meant that the suits were semi-transparent, so rocks etc showed through them. It was funny, but not intentional. Bill ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1527.205.215.255.249.1157111870.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References:

Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 04:57:50 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: Tasty. From: "Bill Nelson" >> Just thought I'd share this picture of me making myself a quick >> stir-fry at work. For reference, both the can and wok had safety > bonds on them. But how do you safety bond the food - or even worse, the hot oil? Bill ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F825B4.5060206 [at] gmail.com> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 08:21:08 -0400 From: Stephen Litterst Organization: University of Delaware Subject: Re: casters References: In-Reply-To: Occy wrote: > --------------------------------------------------- > Has anyone used C.E. Clarke & Son, Inc. in Richmond VA? Or suggest a > supplier on the west coast? Never used or heard of them but decent prices on > fixed casters. When I was in Richmond we used Clarke casters for most of our roadboxes. I don't recall any problems with longevity or quality. Steve L. -- Stephen Litterst Technical Operations Supervisor litterst [at] udel.edu Center for the Arts 302/831-0601 University of Delaware ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1caebf780609010535n463d1166wb3483fe2366e901f [at] mail.gmail.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:35:38 -0400 From: "Jason Salvatori" Subject: Re: [user_group] Battery Question In-Reply-To: References:

For a slightly larger initial investment, I have found that rechargable (good quality name brand, 2300mAh or higher, 2600mAh preferred for AA's, 250mAh or higher for 9v) plus a couple of quick chargers *with charge control* (so you can't overcharge) will save you a significant amount of money in the long run. We have 8 RF mics (16 AA batteries worth) so we own 36 batteries. 16 stay in the mics while the other 16 are in chargers, ready to go. Swap at the top of a show, and you know you've got good ones in all the mics, and back-up ones are ready in 20min. The other 4 are on a shelf, charged about once a week, and kept just as an emergency stand-by (a client brings an extra mic, a remote control for the DVD or projector dies, etc.) Best of luck! Jason Salvatori Technical Director Vaughan City Playhouse ------------------------------ Message-ID: <009901c6cdc3$a1e11f40$6401a8c0 [at] BCA1> Reply-To: "Bill Conner" From: "Bill Conner" Cc: peter [at] scheuconsulting.com References: Subject: Re: Fire Curtain Issues Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 07:39:13 -0500 I posted: And no doubt someone will correct me but I thought the ESTA task group determined that doubling links was not acceptable? and Peter S replied: If I recall, this was the first consensus as it was SOP and some consultants "banned" doubling links, but it was later determined that link manufacturers did not have such a restriction and this was routinely done for fire doors and smoke vents. But in my advancing age and infant-related sleep deprivation, my memory may be a bit fuzzy I came across a page in the Richards Wilcox catalog (available online as a pdf) that makes some specific recommendations for fusible links used to release doors on their track, including photos of actual arrangements of multiple links and a recommendation to replace them annually. I worry that with this kind of stuff in print, that not replacing them would create some liability on the part of the owner, though not a slam dunk for the plaintiff. This of course presumes that a fire safety curtain is ever released by the breaking of fusible links or could have been in an actual fire. Bill Conner ASTC, ETCP CR-T . ------------------------------ Subject: Cue lights? Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:02:45 -0500 Message-ID: <79EC830AA6FE144797DDB30DC498593804FEE983 [at] nsu-ex01.nsu.local> From: "Wild, Larry" I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they = gone the way of the piano board.=20 Larry Wild Northern State University Aberdeen, SD ------------------------------ From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: [user_group] Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:06:52 -0400 Message-ID: <048f01c6cdc7$7e1e9fc0$7f9bfea9 [at] p3m866> In-reply-to: I wholeheartedly agree! And some of the best chargers are made for the hobby rc industry. Some excellent stuff here: http://www.hobby-lobby.com/chargers.htm Jim RC4 > For a slightly larger initial investment, I have found that > rechargable (good quality name brand, 2300mAh or higher, > 2600mAh preferred for AA's, 250mAh or higher for 9v) plus a > couple of quick chargers *with charge control* (so you can't > overcharge) will save you a significant amount of money in > the long run. ------------------------------ Message-ID: <001301c6cdc8$4451c280$0600000a [at] BRUTUS> From: "Jon Ares" References: Subject: Re: Cue lights? Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 06:12:24 -0700 > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they > gone the way of the piano board. Haven't yet, but my new theatre came with 'em. Actually, I have used cue lights in the past - in special circumstances - Deaf theatre was one... another was a show where actors needed to enter on a 'visual' cue, but due to masking, couldn't see the opportunity to enter, hence the cue light. - Jon Ares www.hevanet.com/acreative ------------------------------ Message-ID: Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 14:20:18 +0100 From: Clive Mitchell Subject: Re: Tasty. References:

In-Reply-To: In message , Bill Nelson writes >>> Just thought I'd share this picture of me making myself a quick >>> stir-fry at work. For reference, both the can and wok had safety >> bonds on them. > >But how do you safety bond the food - or even worse, the hot oil? It was done at a castle where pouring hot oil on people from above is considered normal practice. :) In reality it was done in a position where the only things below were trees and grass. -- Clive Mitchell http://www.bigclive.com ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F83540.3080304 [at] gmail.com> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 09:27:28 -0400 From: Stephen Litterst Organization: University of Delaware Subject: Re: Cue lights? References: In-Reply-To: Wild, Larry wrote: > --------------------------------------------------- > > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have > they gone the way of the piano board. We used them consistently at Ithaca, while I was there. Our larger space had a custom-built, low-voltage system with relays spread around the stage and control inputs at the SM booth and tech table. The smaller (arena) theatre has a box of three switches from which we run cable to the cue light location. My new space at Delaware has a custom-built system that I have yet to get a chance to play with. So yes, they're still used. Steve L. -- Stephen Litterst Technical Operations Supervisor litterst [at] udel.edu Center for the Arts 302/831-0601 University of Delaware ------------------------------ In-Reply-To: References:

Message-Id: <1DB3D7F6-D386-4174-BE56-22FCC3B329BE [at] rochester.rr.com> From: Bruce Purdy Subject: Re: Cue lights? Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:28:56 -0400 >> I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have >> they gone the way of the piano board. > > Actually, I have used cue lights in the past - in special > circumstances - Deaf theatre was one... another was a show where > actors needed to enter on a 'visual' cue, but due to masking, > couldn't see the opportunity to enter, hence the cue light. I've never used them as a "Substitute for Clearcom" to give Lx or Sx cues, but I did make up a set of red & green lights that can sit on the edge of the stage. (Lights not visible to the audience, just the performers) I use them for variety shows to let the MC know when the next act is ready to go on, and to warn acts if they are running long. ( Green = "Wrap it up", Red = "Get the *%#$! off the stage already!" ) Bruce ____________________ Bruce Purdy Technical Director Smith Opera House ------------------------------ Message-ID: Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:37:18 -0400 From: "Brian Munroe" Subject: Re: Cue lights? In-Reply-To: References: > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano board. They are still the norm on Broadway and many touring shows. On my show they are used to cue the rail, the fly automation, deck automation, deck cues, sound cues, and the conductor. The stage manager also uses them as call lights for the conductor and sound mixer. There is too much happening on headset for the sm to verbally call all the cues. And wearing headsets is not practical for the sound guy or the flymen on the rail. The style of cue lights and control varies by show. Some have the old standard colored golf ball bulbs, some use colored rope light, others might have leds. Brian Munroe bpmunroe [at] gmail.com ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 10:27:17 -0400 Subject: Re: Cue lights? From: John McKernon Message-ID: In-Reply-To: > They are still the norm on Broadway and many touring shows. On my > show they are used to cue the rail, the fly automation, deck > automation, deck cues, sound cues, and the conductor. The stage > manager also uses them as call lights for the conductor and sound > mixer. Stage managers also occasionally use them to cue actors, for instance to cue an entrance when the actor is offstage behind a door and can't see the action onstage (or hear verbal cues). There isn't always an ASM with a headset handy (or room for one). - John ------------------------------ References: Message-Id: <4A202D9F-0C07-498B-A93A-78F33DC67135 [at] mac.com> From: adrianvanstagecraft [at] mac.com Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 16:55:35 +0200 At least leaving for another job makes sense. I just had a cast member walk out because I dared to suggest that the cast members should also make an effort to sell tickets and should aim to sell at least TEN tickets each (most of ticket sales for community theatre here in South Africa are generated by cast members) And another walked out of sympathy. Try and beat that for inconsiderate :-) Adrian On 31 Aug 2006, at 4:43 PM, CB wrote: For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- > It is unwise to burn = > bridges. When we cast actors who are rising stars, we take the risk = > that they will have to be replaced, but we are budgeted for that, > and = > the other actors often think that if this actor can be cast for a = > major project after being seen in one of my shows, it can happen to = > them, too. This assists in the recruitment and retention of good = > actors, an AMF and qa wave over the shoulder, good riddance to bad rubbish. In other words, it depends. Chris "Chris" Babbie Location Sound MON AZ Delete key training and post trimming done by appointment. Rates negotiable, will trade for typing lessons/ADD treatment... ------------------------------ Message-ID: From: "Laura McMeley" Subject: RE: Cue lights? Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:57:26 -0500 Message-ID: <005501c6cdd6$f078ecb0$6600a8c0 [at] tdolighting01> In-Reply-To: We use them at the opera all the time. It's often not practical for stagehands waiting to move scenery to wear a headset. Also, frequently there are too many people who need the cues all at the same time to give everyone a headset even if they were wireless. Laura McMeley The Dallas Opera > -----Original Message----- > From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Wild, > Larry > Sent: Friday, September 01, 2006 8:03 AM > To: Stagecraft > Subject: Cue lights? > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they > gone the way of the piano board. > Larry Wild > Northern State University > Aberdeen, SD ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 08:10:16 -0700 From: Jerry Durand Subject: Re: Building A better Moon Box In-reply-to: Message-id: <7.0.1.0.0.20060901080722.01ee18b0 [at] interstellar.com> References:

At 09:39 AM 8/30/2006, Pat Kight wrote: >One of the best-looking instant "moon boxes" I've seen was an old, >beat-up old scoop that my pal and fellow list-subscriber Don Taco >hung behind a scrim-being-used-as-a-cyc, facing front, quite >possibly on a whim (or maybe he'll pipe up and say it was brilliant >design, who knows?) On the whim level, a show I worked on had flat upstage painted with a mountain and a lot of sky. The lighting guy put a spot on the sky and it made a VERY nice moon. It wasn't in the original plan, but we left it in. -- Jerry Durand, Durand Interstellar, Inc. www.interstellar.com 219 Oak Wood Way, Los Gatos, California 95032-2523 USA tel: +1 408 356-3886, USA toll free: 1 866 356-3886 Skype: jerrydurand ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1caebf780609010820v24357685q372455cea90b0a69 [at] mail.gmail.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 11:20:23 -0400 From: "Jason Salvatori" Subject: Re: Cue lights? In-Reply-To: References: For one of our resident community groups, I use them all the time for the band director/conductor. She has trouble wearing a headset, conducting, and playing piano at the same time.... Don't know why. ;) Jason Salvatori Technical Director Vaughan City Playhouse On 9/1/06, Wild, Larry wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano board. > Larry Wild > Northern State University > Aberdeen, SD > ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F85E24.4030607 [at] post.tau.ac.il> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:21:56 +0200 From: Judy Subject: freezing lamps > > >Do theatrical lamps need to be stored in a warm place? > I was on tour in Russia once in winter (it was still the Soviet Union then!) We took all our own equipment along, included Pars, profiles, fresnels etc. We flew from St. Petersburg to Moscow, but all the equipment went by truck. It took all night, partly because the truck had to wait six hours in line to fill up on gas. The weather outside was below freezing. When we unloaded the equipment in Moscow, the edges of the linoleum dance floor BROKE, the cold had made them brittle. Some cans of beer we had thrown in with the equipment remained solid ice for the entire day. But all the lamps were fine. Of course that was one night, not a whole winter.... ------------------------------ Message-ID: <20060901153717.26389.qmail [at] web37206.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:37:17 -0700 (PDT) From: Anna Reply-To: Anna Subject: Freezing Dance Floor (slightly OT) In-Reply-To: With Judy's mention of the lino freezing in winter, I wanted to provide my own horrid cold story. My mom is a production manager at a musical theatre company in Siberia. Each november, they go on tour into the oil-producing towns in the Tomsk region. They ship equipment by rail. The first time they went on tour, they took the marley. It was down to 50 below during the journey. It broke. They only owned one set of marley. Most of the time in-house, they dance on muslin groundcloths. The proceeds of the tour was enough to replace that floor for the theatre, and they priced out the concept of flying the lino into the region, but each subsequent tour they took the groundcloth instead. Anna Labykina Technical Director The Boston Conservatory 617.912.9129 office 617.388.5656 mobile ------------------------------ Reply-To: From: "Robert Napoli" Subject: Stage boxes Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 11:45:29 -0400 Organization: Penn State Berks Message-ID: <008701c6cddd$a99b1fa0$2f01a8c0 [at] admin.bklvcol.psu.edu> I'm having trouble searching the archives for Stage boxes. I need a light sturdy construction that can stack. The director is looking for 18" squares 2' squares and 4' squares as well as 12" wide 6'-7' tall pylons. Any sugesstions? He linked me to: http://www.uil.utexas.edu/academics/drama/forms/unit_set_drawings.pdf#search =%22uil%20unit%20set%22 but I am wondering if there is a better way? I've never seen a stage box that actors didn't bitch about. We even own the Wenger Stage box set and they think they are too heavy. No one will believe me that if you support it enough to stand on it it will have some weight. So I'm tried of arguing and I hope the collective genius of the list can prove me wrong. Rob Napoli Run2 [at] psu.edu ------------------------------ Message-ID: <20060901154341.79453.qmail [at] web82214.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:43:41 -0700 (PDT) From: Michael Heinicke Subject: Re: Cue lights? In-Reply-To: We have had several tours come through with cue lights. We are also tossing around the idea of installing a system on the fly rail for the times when we need to have multiple linesets run at the same time. We only have the com system set up for a single flyman to wear while operating the ropes. Mike Heinicke --- "Wild, Larry" wrote: > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue > lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano > board. > Larry Wild > Northern State University > Aberdeen, SD > ------------------------------ Message-ID: <20060901154935.60596.qmail [at] web37203.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:49:35 -0700 (PDT) From: Anna Reply-To: Anna Subject: Re: Stage boxes In-Reply-To: I went through the search for this recently - unfortunately, I could not implement the construction method I'd love to do due to shop space and budget constraints, but the Tech Briefs have a wonderful design by Fritz Schwentker that uses styro fro support. I've also done the layered styro/lauan cover/muslin/paint approach, and they hold up well and weigh nothing. Anna Labykina Technical Director The Boston Conservatory 617.912.9129 office 617.388.5656 mobile ----- Original Message ---- From: Robert Napoli To: Stagecraft Sent: Friday, September 1, 2006 11:45:29 AM Subject: Stage boxes For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- I'm having trouble searching the archives for Stage boxes. I need a light sturdy construction that can stack. The director is looking for 18" squares 2' squares and 4' squares as well as 12" wide 6'-7' tall pylons. Any sugesstions? He linked me to: http://www.uil.utexas.edu/academics/drama/forms/unit_set_drawings.pdf#search =%22uil%20unit%20set%22 but I am wondering if there is a better way? I've never seen a stage box that actors didn't bitch about. We even own the Wenger Stage box set and they think they are too heavy. No one will believe me that if you support it enough to stand on it it will have some weight. So I'm tried of arguing and I hope the collective genius of the list can prove me wrong. Rob Napoli Run2 [at] psu.edu ------------------------------ From: "ladesigners [at] juno.com" Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 15:53:06 GMT Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out Message-Id: <20060901.085348.18186.429100 [at] webmail36.lax.untd.com> Dear Adrian, How strong was the 'Suggestion'? Perhaps more subtly is advisable, = such as a placing a conspicuous sign in the casting area stating: "We = wish to maintain professional standards. As in Hollywood or Broadway, = casting decisions, including recruitment and retention, are made not = based upon by the quality of an actor's performance skills, but = rather by the quantity of ticket sales generated by that actor. We = believe that much of the unpleasant politics surrounding the casting = process can be reduced by everybody recalling that the bedrock goal = of professional theatres is 'Show BUSINESS', not 'Show Talent' and = this policy will help us grow into a truly professional theatre" /s/ Richard ___________________________ At least leaving for another job makes sense. I just had a cast = member walk out because I dared to suggest that the cast members = should also make an effort to sell tickets and should aim to sell at = least TEN tickets each (most of ticket sales for community theatre = here in South Africa are generated by cast members) And another = walked out of sympathy. Try and beat that for inconsiderate :-) Adrian ------------------------------ In-Reply-To: References: Message-Id: <71965392fff91b63dee5962f5902c546 [at] goldrushbc.com> From: Richard Wright Subject: Re: Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:45:22 -0700 Re: batteries and life We have been using 9 volt batteries on our Roscoe flicker candles all summer. We have tried rechargable and alkaline and despite Rosco saying the batteries should last 16 hours we are lucky to get 2 hours per charge -- sometimes they die during the show. It does not seem to matter what brand we use. maybe the mAh is too low? Richard Theatre Royal, Barkerville B.C. Visit us at www.barkerville.ca > >> For a slightly larger initial investment, I have found that >> rechargable (good quality name brand, 2300mAh or higher, >> 2600mAh preferred for AA's, 250mAh or higher for 9v) plus a >> couple of quick chargers *with charge control* (so you can't >> overcharge) will save you a significant amount of money in >> the long run. > ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1685.205.215.255.249.1157129225.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References: Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 09:47:05 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out From: "Bill Nelson" > At least leaving for another job makes sense. I just had a cast > member walk out because I dared to suggest that the cast members > should also make an effort to sell tickets and should aim to sell at > least TEN tickets each (most of ticket sales for community theatre > here in South Africa are generated by cast members) And another > walked out of sympathy. If this were first brought up during rehearsals, then I don't blame the cast member. Any such expectation should be made very clear at auditions - before anyone is cast. Bill ------------------------------ Message-ID: <010e01c6cde7$6e2fbe80$6401a8c0 [at] dondesk> From: "Don Rowe" Subject: Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 12:55:29 -0400 I stumbled across some Varta Batteries. Normally sold for camera flash packs. Just on a whim I tried them in some lav packs that take 1 battery. They worked great and accidentally I found that they powered a pack for 6 days and were still going. They are expensive but when I did the math they worked out cheaper than any other option. ------------------------------ From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: [user_group] Re: Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 13:05:01 -0400 Message-ID: <04bc01c6cde8$c34cb9d0$7f9bfea9 [at] p3m866> In-reply-to: Perhaps your charger is not up to the task. Have you been using the same charger throughout your tests? Jim RC4 > We have been using 9 volt batteries on our Roscoe flicker > candles all summer. We have tried rechargable and alkaline > and despite Rosco saying the batteries should last 16 hours > we are lucky to get 2 hours per charge -- sometimes they die > during the show. It does not seem to matter what brand we > use. maybe the mAh is too low? > > Richard ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F868A4.10001 [at] peak.org> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 10:06:44 -0700 From: Pat Kight Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out References:

In-Reply-To: Bill Nelson wrote: >>At least leaving for another job makes sense. I just had a cast >>member walk out because I dared to suggest that the cast members >>should also make an effort to sell tickets and should aim to sell at >>least TEN tickets each (most of ticket sales for community theatre >>here in South Africa are generated by cast members) And another >>walked out of sympathy. > If this were first brought up during rehearsals, then I don't blame the > cast member. Any such expectation should be made very clear at auditions - > before anyone is cast. Absolutely. Different theaters have different cultures, standards and expectations; at the all-volunteer/community theater level, it's not unusual for actors to be expected to help with all sorts of off-stage things, from ticket sales to (as in our case) putting up posters and helping build and strike the set. I prefer to let people know what they're in for *before* casting, so the ones who object can quit before we've invested any time in them. -- Pat Kight kightp [at] peak.org ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 12:07:41 -0500 Subject: I need tree drops From: Philip Johnson Message-ID: We are doing Into the Woods, its kind of a last minute decision and I am looking for tree portals, legs and individual trees to make the woods. I have checked Tobins and Cobalt. Are there any folks out there who might have such drops available for rent or loan. I am in Corpus Christi, tx. All help is appreciated Tia -- Philip Johnson Professor of Theatre Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi ------------------------------ From: "Jim at TheatreWireless.com" Subject: RE: Battery Question Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 13:08:56 -0400 Message-ID: <04bd01c6cde9$4f93fb10$7f9bfea9 [at] p3m866> In-reply-to: What type of Varta battery? They make pretty much everything. Any chance you've put a 3V lithium cell in a 1.5V product? Or perhaps it's a 1.5V lithium battery, rather than the more common alkaline? Jim RC4 > -----Original Message----- > From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf > Of Don Rowe > Sent: September 1, 2006 12:55 PM > To: Stagecraft > Subject: [user_group] -SPAM- (5.8): Battery Question > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > > --------------------------------------------------- > > I stumbled across some Varta Batteries. Normally sold for > camera flash packs. Just on a whim I tried them in some lav > packs that take 1 battery. > They worked great and accidentally I found that they powered > a pack for 6 days and were still going. They are expensive > but when I did the math they worked out cheaper than any other option. > > > > > ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 12:07:41 -0500 Subject: I need tree drops From: Philip Johnson Message-ID: We are doing Into the Woods, its kind of a last minute decision and I am looking for tree portals, legs and individual trees to make the woods. I have checked Tobins and Cobalt. Are there any folks out there who might have such drops available for rent or loan. I am in Corpus Christi, tx. All help is appreciated Tia -- Philip Johnson Professor of Theatre Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi ------------------------------ References: Message-Id: From: adrianvanstagecraft [at] mac.com Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 19:22:55 +0200 Goodness, I sound like a tyrant :-) BTW it was made very clear, but to quote the cast member "selling tickets doesn't work" ... exact words. It is also not a requirement and no pressure on any cast members who don't sell. That's just the number that will cover the costs of the show. Ten tickets per cast member. Actually, not too much harm was done, as the rest of the cast are pulling together and will be ready to make magic in two weeks time (enough time to hang lights, finish the sound effects CD and so on) The Doors: People are strange Adrian On 01 Sep 2006, at 6:47 PM, Bill Nelson wrote: For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- > At least leaving for another job makes sense. I just had a cast > member walk out because I dared to suggest that the cast members > should also make an effort to sell tickets and should aim to sell at > least TEN tickets each (most of ticket sales for community theatre > here in South Africa are generated by cast members) And another > walked out of sympathy. If this were first brought up during rehearsals, then I don't blame the cast member. Any such expectation should be made very clear at auditions - before anyone is cast. Bill Adrian van der Merwe adrianvan [at] mac.com ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 13:21:57 -0400 Subject: Re: I need tree drops From: Steve Larson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: How about Peter Wolf Associates in Dallas? Are they still in business? Only phone # I have is 214-824-2029. Steve > From: Philip Johnson > Reply-To: "Stagecraft" > Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 12:07:41 -0500 > To: "Stagecraft" > Subject: I need tree drops > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > We are doing Into the Woods, its kind of a last minute decision and I am > looking for tree portals, legs and individual trees to make the woods. I > have checked Tobins and Cobalt. Are there any folks out there who might > have such drops available for rent or loan. I am in Corpus Christi, tx. > All help is appreciated > Tia > > > > -- > Philip Johnson > Professor of Theatre > Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi > > ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1809.205.215.255.249.1157132244.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References:

Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 10:37:24 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: Off Topic: When A Community Theater Company Member Drops Out From: "Bill Nelson" > Actually, not too much harm was done, as the rest of the cast are > pulling together and will be ready to make magic in two weeks time > (enough time to hang lights, finish the sound effects CD and so on) Glad to hear it. Loss of a cast member, for whatever reason, can often throw everything into temporary chaos. In the few instances occurring on shows with which I have been involved, we have managed to find a replacement, usually with a person as good (or better) than the original one. Bill ------------------------------ Message-ID: <20060901174852.55920.qmail [at] web82209.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 10:48:52 -0700 (PDT) From: Michael Heinicke Subject: EZ Trim rope Can anyone tell me who manufactures EZ-Trim rope and who sells it? A web search hasn't turned up a manufacturer or supplier and my normal rigging supplier doesn't have it listed on his web page. Thanks, Mike Heinicke ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1819.205.215.255.249.1157133298.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References:

Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 10:54:58 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: I need tree drops From: "Bill Nelson" > We are doing Into the Woods, its kind of a last minute decision and I am > looking for tree portals, legs and individual trees to make the woods. I > have checked Tobins and Cobalt. Are there any folks out there who might > have such drops available for rent or loan. I am in Corpus Christi, > tx. Our local community theatre currently has ITW in production. The set designer used actual tree limbs, as well as constructing the "Mother's grave" tree from chicken wire and paper mache. The limbs are wired to the boarders and gave me some challenges in lighting, but the effect is quite nice. If I get a chance, I will try to take a picture and post a link for viewing. I had the set designer construct a large "knot hole" in the tree, large enough for a person's head and shoulders to show through it. I also found a piece of camouflaged sharkstooth scrim that I used to cover the opening. By keeping the front light on the scrim low, it just looks like a large scar on the tree. I think I did too effective a job, as many audience members have commented, wondering how I managed to project images on the tree and where I hid the projector. I also use a smaller hole in the tree, also covered with scrim, to hide the instrument used to illuminate the inside of Granny's house for the "shadow play" scene. I am not completely satisfied with this effect as, is often the case with such backlighting, some of the audience members can see the glare of the instrument through the "wall". Bill ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 13:01:19 -0500 Subject: Re: I need tree drops From: Philip Johnson Message-ID: In-Reply-To: I have the designs and other things ready, I am just checking on options for drops so I don't have to make and paint them. Ideas we got, time we aint. I have used tobins, cobalt looks great. Any rental houses closer to Texas? Thanks agin -- Philip Johnson Professor of Theatre Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 14:12:09 -0400 Subject: Re: EZ Trim rope From: Bill Sapsis Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Uh. Me. I have it. I'm actually the person who invented the name after working on a braiding design with Yale Cordage about 20 years ago. They're up in Biddeford, Maine. Zat help? Bill S. ETCP Certified Rigger - Theatre www.sapsis-rigging.com 800.727.7471 267.278.4561 mobile On 9/1/06 1:48 PM, "Michael Heinicke" wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > Can anyone tell me who manufactures EZ-Trim rope and > who sells it? A web search hasn't turned up a > manufacturer or supplier and my normal rigging > supplier doesn't have it listed on his web page. > > Thanks, > Mike Heinicke ------------------------------ Message-Id: Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 14:27:14 -0400 From: "CATHERINE BRUMM" Subject: Re: I need tree drops The HS I work with uses grosh scenic rentals out of LA for some aspect of every musical they do when they did into the woods a few years back and I designed the set I nice tree borders and legs and they have full portals depending on size of space I don't rememeber individual trees. they are at www.grosh.com Catherine K. Brumm, General Manager Minnie Evans Arts Center Wilmington, NC P) 910-790-2360 x821 F) 910-790-2356 cbrumm [at] nhcs.net www.geocities.com/nhcscbrumm/index.html All e-mail correspondence to and from this address is subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law, which may result in monitoring and disclosure to third parties, including law enforcement. >>> Philip.Johnson [at] tamucc.edu 09/01/06 1:07 PM >>> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see --------------------------------------------------- We are doing Into the Woods, its kind of a last minute decision and I am looking for tree portals, legs and individual trees to make the woods. I have checked Tobins and Cobalt. Are there any folks out there who might have such drops available for rent or loan. I am in Corpus Christi, tx. All help is appreciated Tia -- Philip Johnson Professor of Theatre Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi ------------------------------ Message-ID: <1918.205.215.255.249.1157135520.squirrel [at] webmail.peak.org> In-Reply-To: References:

Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 11:32:00 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Re: Black Box Paint From: "Bill Nelson" >> I know we discussed the color of the floor in black boxes, but the >> director at the HS i work with just called to question me about what >> finish the wall paint should be... Flat/Eggshell/Semi-Gloss.... > > I'm a big fan of eggshell or satin. Just enough of a finish to clean up > nicely before a show. Flat just absorbs dirt from patron's shoes and > only looks good for one night. Heh, heh. If patrons can walk on the walls in your space, I want to visit it. I have never seen such a gravitational anomoly before. Bill ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 14:49:09 -0400 Subject: Re: EZ Trim rope From: Steve Shelley Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Hey bill. I'll bite. What is EZ trim rope? shelley On 9/1/06 2:12 PM, "Bill Sapsis" wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > Uh. Me. I have it. I'm actually the person who invented the name after > working on a braiding design with Yale Cordage about 20 years ago. They're > up in Biddeford, Maine. > > Zat help? > > Bill S. > ETCP Certified Rigger - Theatre > www.sapsis-rigging.com > 800.727.7471 > 267.278.4561 mobile > > > > On 9/1/06 1:48 PM, "Michael Heinicke" wrote: > >> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see >> --------------------------------------------------- >> >> Can anyone tell me who manufactures EZ-Trim rope and >> who sells it? A web search hasn't turned up a >> manufacturer or supplier and my normal rigging >> supplier doesn't have it listed on his web page. >> >> Thanks, >> Mike Heinicke > > -- Steve Shelley Ignorant of EZ Rope MrTemplate [at] Earthlink.net www.fieldtemplate.com ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F881C6.6060704 [at] gmail.com> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 14:53:58 -0400 From: Stephen Litterst Organization: University of Delaware Subject: Re: Black Box Paint References:

In-Reply-To: Bill Nelson wrote: > --------------------------------------------------- >>>I know we discussed the color of the floor in black boxes, but the >>>director at the HS i work with just called to question me about what >>>finish the wall paint should be... Flat/Eggshell/Semi-Gloss.... >> >>I'm a big fan of eggshell or satin. Just enough of a finish to clean up >>nicely before a show. Flat just absorbs dirt from patron's shoes and >>only looks good for one night. > > > Heh, heh. If patrons can walk on the walls in your space, I want to visit > it. I have never seen such a gravitational anomoly before. Ok, I'll admit that I didn't read the email well enough. That being said, I've seen plenty of footprints on walls where patrons would lean against the wall and prop their foot up behind them. Steve L. -- Stephen Litterst Technical Operations Supervisor litterst [at] udel.edu Center for the Arts 302/831-0601 University of Delaware ------------------------------ From: "ladesigners [at] juno.com" Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 19:51:01 GMT Subject: Re: Black Box Paint Message-Id: <20060901.125140.8266.428027 [at] webmail37.lax.untd.com> And I've seen plenty of headprints on walls where patrons in the last = row lean their greasy hair against the back wall of the house. /s/ Richard _________________________________ I've seen plenty of footprints on walls where patrons would lean = against the wall and prop their foot up behind them. Steve L. ------------------------------ From: "ladesigners [at] juno.com" Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 19:56:34 GMT Subject: Re: EZ Trim rope Message-Id: <20060901.125649.8266.428057 [at] webmail37.lax.untd.com> Why am I not surprised? /s/ Richard _________________________ Uh. Me. I have it. I'm actually the person who invented the name = after working on a braiding design with Yale Cordage about 20 years = ago. = Zat help? Bill S. _______________ > Can anyone tell me who manufactures EZ-Trim rope and > who sells it? A web search hasn't turned up a > manufacturer or supplier and my normal rigging > supplier doesn't have it listed on his web page. > Thanks, > Mike Heinicke ------------------------------ From: Subject: Re: Black Box Paint Message-Id: <20060901152453.CFL02301 [at] mail.uisd.net> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 15:24:53 -0500 (CDT) Bill Nelson wrote: > --------------------------------------------------- >>>I know we discussed the color of the floor in black boxes, but the >>>director at the HS i work with just called to question me about what >>>finish the wall paint should be... Flat/Eggshell/Semi-Gloss.... >> >>I'm a big fan of eggshell or satin. Just enough of a finish to clean up >>nicely before a show. Flat just absorbs dirt from patron's shoes and >>only looks good for one night. > > > Heh, heh. If patrons can walk on the walls in your space, I want to visit > it. I have never seen such a gravitational anomoly before. Ok, I'll admit that I didn't read the email well enough. That being said, I've seen plenty of footprints on walls where patrons would lean against the wall and prop their foot up behind them. Steve L. ------------------------------------------------------------- ROTFLMAO! I needed a good laugh... ( - : > ------------------------------ Message-Id: <3.0.6.32.20060901133531.00c3ea08 [at] pop.west.cox.net> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 13:35:31 From: CB Subject: Re: Tasty. >Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (Edinburgh Castle) Just recently? I was there last year when they were setting up that scaff. There's a decent chance that we were right next to one another for anhour or so if you were there last year! Chris "Chris" Babbie Location Sound MON AZ Delete key training and post trimming done by appointment. Rates negotiable, will trade for typing lessons/ADD treatment... ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 13:54:27 -0700 From: Jerry Durand Subject: Re: Battery Question In-reply-to: Message-id: <7.0.1.0.0.20060901134654.01f2ed10 [at] interstellar.com> References:

At 09:45 AM 9/1/2006, Richard Wright wrote: >We have been using 9 volt batteries on our Roscoe flicker candles >all summer. We have tried rechargable and alkaline and despite Rosco >saying the batteries should last 16 hours we are lucky to get 2 >hours per charge -- sometimes they die during the show. It does not >seem to matter what brand we use. maybe the mAh is too low? Rechargeable batteries are often a different voltage than the disposable ones. NiCd have always been bad about this, a freshly charged battery may show up as almost dead to a device that expects carbon-zinc or alkaline. So, it's not the battery's fault, it just doesn't put out enough voltage for the device. Modern things "should" have a switching regulator that can work over a wide range. Portable stuff I design can suck an alkaline battery down to about 2V before it gives up. This is REALLY bad for a rechargeable, the device needs to know to shut down at the right voltage. -- Jerry Durand, Durand Interstellar, Inc. www.interstellar.com 219 Oak Wood Way, Los Gatos, California 95032-2523 USA tel: +1 408 356-3886, USA toll free: 1 866 356-3886 Skype: jerrydurand ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 14:05:23 -0700 From: Jerry Durand Subject: Cheap data logging Message-id: <7.0.1.0.0.20060901135859.01f20008 [at] interstellar.com> Something that could be handy around the shop... I just picked up a multimeter with isolated RS-232 output. Normal meter functions plus duty cycle (dimmers), frequency, temperature. Came with test leads, software, K-type thermocouple probe, AA batteries. Model TP4000ZC, $39.99 with Windows software that produces Excel-compatible files in addition to the on-screen display. Not fancy, but it is good for all those times you need to watch something over time. I just got it for testing battery life for a client (waiting for the LED to go off gets REALLY boring!). They shipped right away and even threw in a free LED flashlight (small one, but it works). http://www.multimeterwarehouse.com/ -- Jerry Durand, Durand Interstellar, Inc. www.interstellar.com 219 Oak Wood Way, Los Gatos, California 95032-2523 USA tel: +1 408 356-3886, USA toll free: 1 866 356-3886 Skype: jerrydurand ------------------------------ Message-ID: From: "Occy" Cc: run2 [at] psu.edu References: Subject: Re: Stage boxes Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 14:41:56 -0700 What isn't heavy that Wenger makes? ----- Original Message ----- From: "Robert Napoli" > but I am wondering if there is a better way? I've never seen a stage box > that actors didn't bitch about. We even own the Wenger Stage box set and > they think they are too heavy. No one will believe me that if you support > it > enough to stand on it it will have some weight. So I'm tried of arguing > and > I hope the collective genius of the list can prove me wrong. > > Rob Napoli > Run2 [at] psu.edu > > > ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:17:41 -0400 Message-Id: <8C89C2B93396632-1498-2A18 [at] mblk-d18.sysops.aol.com> From: frankwood95 [at] aol.com References:

In-Reply-To: Subject: Re: Battery Question =C2=A0 Rechargeable batteries are often a different voltage than the=20 disposable ones. NiCd have always been bad about this, a freshly=20 charged battery may show up as almost dead to a device that expects=20 carbon-zinc or alkaline. So, it's not the battery's fault, it just=20 doesn't put out enough voltage for the device.=C2=A0 =C2=A0 Modern things "should" have a switching regulator that can work over a=20 wide range. Portable stuff I design can suck an alkaline battery down=20 to about 2V before it gives up. This is REALLY bad for a rechargeable,=20 the device needs to know to shut down at the right voltage.=C2=A0 This is a minefield. Disposable cells have a couple of 1.5V per cell.=20 rechargables 1.2V. In general, disposables can be used until they fail,=20 but rechargeable cells need more care. It is unwise to discharge them=20 below 1.0V per cell. But they have different discharge charesterics.=20 Disposable cells die slowly, Ni-Cd cells hold their voltage for a good=20 while, and then die like a stone. I used to work for an outfit which made heavy use of both: a film=20 outfit. Rechargeables were necessary for the cameras, because of the=20 high current drawn on start. 8A typically. Disposable cells will not=20 handle this, but they were used for all sound gear. Picking the right=20 cells for a particulqar application, was difficult. Manufacturers are=20 liable to change the cell construction without telling anyone. This may=20 well alter their characteristics.I built a test jig to simulate normal=20 usage. This week, Kodak cells were best: next week, maybe Varta, and=20 then Ever-Ready or GE. =C2=A0 ________________________________________________________________________ Check out AOL.com today. Breaking news, video search, pictures, email=20 and IM. All on demand. Always Free. ------------------------------ Message-ID: <9vG65$sKNL+EFwPF [at] ntlworld.com> Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 23:25:14 +0100 From: Clive Mitchell Subject: Re: Tasty. References: In-Reply-To: In message , CB writes >Just recently? I was there last year when they were setting up that >scaff. > There's a decent chance that we were right next to one another for >anhour >or so if you were there last year! I was, but the structure takes a while to put up and we only arrived just as it was nearing completion. We actually started a bit earlier last year to rig the lighting for the Harry Potter launch. -- Clive Mitchell http://www.bigclive.com ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:35:27 -0400 Message-Id: <8C89C2E0E8A3E5B-160C-10C2 [at] mblk-d15.sysops.aol.com> From: frankwood95 [at] aol.com References:

In-Reply-To: Subject: Re: Cue lights? =C2=A0 >> I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have >>=20 they gone the way of the piano board.=C2=A0 They still have their uses. For crew who cannot conveniently wear cans,=20 which would impair their mobility, and for actors. Also for crew who=20 can't reasonably wear cans, such as sound. Also for stubborn old=20 beggars like me, who will not wear cans. =C2=A0 =C2=A0 ________________________________________________________________________ Check out AOL.com today. Breaking news, video search, pictures, email=20 and IM. All on demand. Always Free. ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F8BA64.9010703 [at] audiovisualdevices.com.au> Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2006 08:55:32 +1000 From: David Duffy Subject: Re: Cue lights? References: In-Reply-To: Wild, Larry wrote: > I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano board. I just had a thought while reading this. How about about a cue light system that worked a little like DMX? Addressable cue lights that use a common cable and a controller that spits out data and power over RJ45/CAT5 to them all. There'd be no acknowledgment buttons on them with DMX, although RDM would allow for that. Worth doing? Been done before? David... -- ___________________________________________ David Duffy Audio Visual Devices P/L Unit 8, 10 Hook St, Capalaba 4157 Australia Ph: +61 7 38235717 Fax: +61 7 38234717 Our Web Site: www.audiovisualdevices.com.au ___________________________________________ ------------------------------ Message-ID: From: "Laura McMeley" Cc: ani_td [at] yahoo.com ('Anna') Subject: RE: Freezing Dance Floor (slightly OT) Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 18:04:11 -0500 Message-ID: <000c01c6ce1a$eff525d0$6600a8c0 [at] tdolighting01> In-Reply-To: You reminded me of a story. I once worked in a theatre in a small town in Colorado where they left the building unheated during the winter. There was no resident company, but they used the room for town meetings occasionally in the winter. They would come in and turn on all the stage lights to warm up the building I was told. This explained why the lenses in every lamp where cracked! Fortunately I had brought some of my own lights for that gig. Laura 972-333-5016 > -----Original Message----- > From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Anna > Sent: Friday, September 01, 2006 10:37 AM > To: Stagecraft > Subject: Freezing Dance Floor (slightly OT) > > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > With Judy's mention of the lino freezing in winter, I wanted to provide my > own horrid cold story. > > My mom is a production manager at a musical theatre company in Siberia. > Each november, they go on tour into the oil-producing towns in the Tomsk > region. They ship equipment by rail. The first time they went on tour, > they took the marley. It was down to 50 below during the journey. It > broke. They only owned one set of marley. Most of the time in-house, > they dance on muslin groundcloths. The proceeds of the tour was enough to > replace that floor for the theatre, and they priced out the concept of > flying the lino into the region, but each subsequent tour they took the > groundcloth instead. > > Anna Labykina > Technical Director > The Boston Conservatory > 617.912.9129 office > 617.388.5656 mobile ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 20:07:35 -0400 From: Eddie Kramer Subject: Re: Speaking of Magazines On 8/30/06 Michael Finney sent: >I'll definitely second the nomination of a spokesmodel for the ETCP >programs - assuming Eddie doesn't beat me to it! Your on, that just leaves me to vote yes. Eddie -- -------------------- Eddie Kramer IATSE #1 Member NEC Panel 15 ------------------------------ Message-ID: <$YiK0qvZ6M+EFwd2 [at] ntlworld.com> Date: Sat, 2 Sep 2006 01:21:45 +0100 From: Clive Mitchell Subject: Re: Battery Question References:

In-Reply-To: In message , frankwood95 [at] aol.com writes >Rechargeable batteries are often a different voltage than the=20 >disposable ones. NiCd have always been bad about this, a freshly=20 >charged battery may show up as almost dead to a device that expects=20 >carbon-zinc or alkaline. So, it's not the battery's fault, it just=20 >doesn't put out enough voltage for the device.=A0 It should be pointed out that although a fresh alkaline cell may put out=20 1.5v this falls steadily over the life of the cell until it is=20 completely flat. The capacity of alkaline cells is rated by how long=20 they can supply current until the voltage has fallen to 0.75V or in=20 other words half the starting voltage. This is completely unlike NiCd's=20 or NiMh's which maintain their output at near 1.2V from fully charged to=20 nearly flat. The rechargeable cells also tend to have such a low=20 internal resistance that they can maintain their 1.2V output even under=20 high loads that would pull the alkaline cells voltage down below 1.5V=20 anyway. This makes the modern NiMh rechargeable cells much superior to even the=20 very best alkaline cell. They allow equipment to perform at it's full=20 capacity for the duration of the cells charge. This is particularly=20 useful in props with lamps or LEDs since the intensity will remain=20 constant instead of tailing away slowly. (Bad news for continuity in TV=20 and film.) A typical 2Ah NiMh AA outperforms the very best Duracell and can then be=20 recharged to do it again and again. I only recommend alkaline cells for=20 very slow drain applications like clocks. There's a reason Duracell=20 have been selling their own brand of NiMh product. They know that the=20 alkaline market is almost history. I'll second the other post recommending against old style zinc carbon=20 cells. These are sold in huge "bargain" packs and are not only very low=20 capacity, but WILL leak alkaline electrolyte at the end of their life if=20 not before. These should simply be banned. They must be one of the=20 biggest sources of environmental pollution. Don't be tempted to go for the very latest ultra capacity 2600mAh cells.=20 There's a price to pay for the higher capacity in terms of reliability=20 and ability to supply current at low temperatures. A typical 2000mAh=20 (2Ah) AA cell is a good all rounder. (And cheaper too.) --=20 Clive Mitchell http://www.bigclive.com ------------------------------ Message-ID: <003b01c6ce29$ea842e70$0600000a [at] BRUTUS> From: "Jon Ares" References:

Subject: Re: Black Box Paint Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 17:51:24 -0700 >>> I know we discussed the color of the floor in black boxes, but the >>> director at the HS i work with just called to question me about what >>> finish the wall paint should be... Flat/Eggshell/Semi-Gloss.... >> >> I'm a big fan of eggshell or satin. Just enough of a finish to clean up >> nicely before a show. Flat just absorbs dirt from patron's shoes and >> only looks good for one night. > > Heh, heh. If patrons can walk on the walls in your space, I want to visit > it. I have never seen such a gravitational anomoly before. Whoa.... thanks, Bill... I too totally missed the word 'walls' in the OP. I too assumed 'floor.' Our new black box has a semi-gloss. Looks 'blacker' than the flat-spray painted WireMold on the walls (that look like hell with all the overspray they had better be planning on covering). - Jon Ares www.hevanet.com/acreative ------------------------------ Message-Id: <5.2.0.9.0.20060901225035.00b9a528 [at] pop.lightlink.com> Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 22:54:43 -0400 From: John Bracewell Subject: Re: Cue lights? In-Reply-To: References:

>I just had a thought while reading this. How about about a cue light >system that worked a little like DMX? Addressable cue lights that use a >common cable and a controller that spits out data and power over >RJ45/CAT5 to them all. There'd be no acknowledgment buttons on them with >DMX, although RDM would allow for that. Worth doing? Been done before? At one point (back in the late seventies or early eighties, I think) I worked out plans for a cue light system based on TTL. The point was to provide multiple cues, sequential or simultaneous go's, all with acknowledge from each station. I tested the idea and it worked, but I never actually built it. It would have been interesting to see how it would have worked in practice. Of course, now a version using a completely digital protocol over CAT-5 would not only be easier, but a lot more capable. -- JLB ------------------------------ From: StevevETTrn [at] aol.com Message-ID: <539.6f0576a.322a5d59 [at] aol.com> Date: Sat, 2 Sep 2006 00:06:49 EDT Subject: Re: Battery Question - test device Frank Wood writes: >I built a test jig to simulate normal usage. Now that sounds like a really useful device. Proof of performance testing? How about writing that up for a DYI project. We have a lot of different types of batteries around the stage & shop that have varying degrees of useful duration. One is always left with the question whether it is the battery, or the charger, or the device that is under performing. Other than just switching things around for a process of elimination, what can be done to quantify battery output in terms that relate to getting work done? Steve Vanciel Orlando, FL ------------------------------ Date: Fri, 01 Sep 2006 21:41:03 -0700 From: Jerry Durand Subject: Re: Battery Question - test device In-reply-to: Message-id: <85AEF29A-FADD-4F7E-A64C-C744CF20064E [at] interstellar.com> References: On Sep 1, 2006, at 9:06 PM, StevevETTrn [at] aol.com wrote: > Now that sounds like a really useful device. Proof of performance > testing? > How about writing that up for a DYI project. > We have a lot of different types of batteries around the stage & > shop that > have varying degrees of useful duration. One is always left with > the question > whether it is the battery, or the charger, or the device that is > under > performing. Other than just switching things around for a process > of elimination, > what can be done to quantify battery output in terms that relate > to getting > work done? You need to come up with a usage pattern for your device. A battery that does well under a constant small load may be worthless if there are surges. A battery (like NiCd) that handles high current surges just fine may quickly go dead just sitting there not being used. Once you know the usage it's not too hard to make a simulator (you do this so all the batteries are tested identically). You then try brands/charging methods to see what works best for you. ------------------------------ Message-ID: <004f01c6ce4a$8e1c29f0$6401a8c0 [at] dondesk> From: "Don Rowe" References: Subject: Re: Battery Question - test device Date: Sat, 2 Sep 2006 00:45:03 -0400 They were Standard AA Varta Bateries I got from Ritz Camera Shop. As for the cells you kind of just educated me on that one cause I didn't know there was a differance. Lastlly when it comes to rechargeable batteries there is proof that you do have to "condition" your bateries about once a year I kill all of my 18v Dewalt batteries then let them sit over the weekend and poof on monday they run again!!!! when I'm all done I notice about a 45 min extension in run time!! Well worth it if your a traveling tech. ------------------------------ From: "Bruce Lehnus" Subject: Ballet for the big boys Date: Sat, 2 Sep 2006 02:39:21 -0400 Message-ID: <001e01c6ce5a$86004160$6500a8c0 [at] vaioRg840g> In-Reply-To: I....I...have no words. I want to be there..... ------------------------------ Message-ID: <6445281.1157179349939.JavaMail.root [at] elwamui-polski.atl.sa.earthlink.net> Date: Sat, 2 Sep 2006 02:42:29 -0400 (GMT-04:00) From: seanrmc [at] earthlink.net Reply-To: seanrmc [at] earthlink.net Subject: Re: Cue lights? Yes, PLEASE!!! ;) To the OP: Yes, cue lights are very much still in use--and will be for a long time. They are used for everything already mentioned (Sound ops, fly cues, etc), but they are by far (at least in the larger regional theatres) mostly used for actors. FOH spotting lights, entrance cue lights, and often "OK" lights ("hey, that moving piece of scenery is in place now") all fall into the cue light realm. I can't believe that there isn't an "off the shelf" system available. I want a system that: Is DMX, or some other similar protocol Has "solo" or "group mastered" functions Talks to relays backstage Rack mountable and not too heavy Specifically, I'd love to see a system that had 12-18 3-position toggles with up being "solo", middle being "off" and down being "controlled by the master". Pilot lights above and below each switch. DMX, etc cable run to backstage driving a number of SMALL and probably solid-state 120v relays (max 1 amp each) to control the cuelights. Anyone out there make such a thing, or can make it for....er.....less than a fortune? --Sean Sean R. McCarthy seanrmc [at] earthlink.net -----Original Message----- >From: David Duffy >Sent: Sep 1, 2006 6:55 PM >To: Stagecraft >Subject: Re: Cue lights? > >For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see >--------------------------------------------------- > >Wild, Larry wrote: >> I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano board. > >I just had a thought while reading this. How about about a cue light >system that worked a little like DMX? Addressable cue lights that use a >common cable and a controller that spits out data and power over >RJ45/CAT5 to them all. There'd be no acknowledgment buttons on them with >DMX, although RDM would allow for that. Worth doing? Been done before? >David... > ------------------------------ Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2006 04:36:35 -0400 Subject: Re: Ballet for the big boys From: Herrick Goldman Message-ID: In-Reply-To: Didn't like the costumes. Too blue Collar. They're more suited to a William's play or On the Waterfront. Occasionally the lead dancer was a bit mechanical. On 9/2/06 2:39 AM, "Bruce Lehnus" wrote: > For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see > --------------------------------------------------- > > I....I...have no words. > I want to be there..... > > > -- Herrick Goldman Lighting Designer, NYC www.HGLightingDesign.com 917-797-3624 "To the scores of silent alchemists who wreak their joy in darkness and in light bringing magic to life, we bow most humbly. "-CDS ------------------------------ Message-ID: <44F94719.3090301 [at] audiovisualdevices.com.au> Date: Sat, 02 Sep 2006 18:55:53 +1000 From: David Duffy Subject: Re: Cue lights? References: In-Reply-To: With a DMX based system you could drive it off a small lighting desk if need be. Maybe it could work like this: One fader per set of standby/go lights. 0-32% = standby and go lights off 33-66% = standby light on 67-100% = go light on I've already made DMX controlled relays that switch on at 50% so the cue light system would fit in with that neatly. The solo and group function are just flash and preset functions! David... seanrmc [at] earthlink.net wrote: > Yes, PLEASE!!! > > ;) > > To the OP: Yes, cue lights are very much still in use--and will be for a long time. They are used for everything already mentioned (Sound ops, fly cues, etc), but they are by far (at least in the larger regional theatres) mostly used for actors. FOH spotting lights, entrance cue lights, and often "OK" lights ("hey, that moving piece of scenery is in place now") all fall into the cue light realm. > > I can't believe that there isn't an "off the shelf" system available. I want a system that: > Is DMX, or some other similar protocol > Has "solo" or "group mastered" functions > Talks to relays backstage > Rack mountable and not too heavy > > > Specifically, I'd love to see a system that had 12-18 3-position toggles with up being "solo", middle being "off" and down being "controlled by the master". Pilot lights above and below each switch. DMX, etc cable run to backstage driving a number of SMALL and probably solid-state 120v relays (max 1 amp each) to control the cuelights. Anyone out there make such a thing, or can make it for....er.....less than a fortune? > > --Sean > > > -----Original Message----- > >> From: David Duffy >> Sent: Sep 1, 2006 6:55 PM >> To: Stagecraft >> Subject: Re: Cue lights? >> >> Wild, Larry wrote: >> >>> I was just wondering, does anybody still use cue lights? Or, have they gone the way of the piano board. >>> >> I just had a thought while reading this. How about about a cue light >> system that worked a little like DMX? Addressable cue lights that use a >> common cable and a controller that spits out data and power over >> RJ45/CAT5 to them all. There'd be no acknowledgment buttons on them with >> DMX, although RDM would allow for that. Worth doing? Been done before? >> David... >> >> -- ___________________________________________ David Duffy Audio Visual Devices P/L Unit 8, 10 Hook St, Capalaba 4157 Australia Ph: +61 7 38235717 Fax: +61 7 38234717 New Web: www.audiovisualdevices.com.au ___________________________________________ ------------------------------ End of Stagecraft Digest #934 *****************************