Return-Path: X-Processed-By: Virex 7 on prxy.net X-Real-To: stagecraftlist [at] theatrical.net X-ListServer: CommuniGate Pro LIST 4.1.8 List-Unsubscribe: List-ID: Message-ID: From: "Stagecraft" Sender: "Stagecraft" To: "Stagecraft" Precedence: list Subject: Stagecraft Digest #32 Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 03:00:31 -0700 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="ISO-8859-1" Content-Disposition: inline For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ --------------------------------------------------- Stagecraft Digest, Issue #32 1. Show-Power mailing list... by Charlie Richmond 2. Video Projector by "alan " 3. Re: Third Rail Myth by Bruce Purdy 4. Re: Video signal routing by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com 5. video signal routing by Richard Bakos 6. Re: Video signal routing by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com 7. Re: Video signal routing by "Jon Ares" 8. Adapt or sit on the sidelines by Michael Powers 9. Re: Video signal routing by "Adam Berns" 10. Re: Video signal routing by "Jeremiah Minh Greenblatt" 11. Re: Video signal routing by "Ian Cunningham" 12. Re: plea about format!!!! by "Kevin R. Lowther" 13. Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) by "Rachael Saltzman" 14. Re: Microvision disks? (boy what a fun list) by "Rachael Saltzman" 15. Re: Guinness Arbor by "Rachael Saltzman" 16. Re: Video signal routing by Jerry Durand 17. pricing penguins by Jacqueline Haney Kidwell 18. Re: pricing penguins by David Marks 19. plea about format!!!! by CB 20. Re: Video signal routing by CB 21. Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) by Rigger 22. Re: Automation, Counterweight rigging and many related topics by Stuart Wheaton 23. Re: pricing penguins by Richard Niederberg 24. This is what I sent All Plan test ?? by ken [at] kenholyoak.com (Ken Holyoak) 25. Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) by "Joe Meils" 26. Video signal routing by "pete quinlan" 27. Rental Draperies... help please by barney 28. Re: Adapt or sit on the sidelines by Bsapsis [at] aol.com 29. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Bsapsis [at] aol.com 30. Re: Video signal routing by Michael Feinberg 31. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Rigger 32. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Stuart Wheaton 33. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by barney 34. Re: pricing penguins by "Matthew Breton" 35. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by barney 36. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by barney 37. Re: pricing penguins by Simon Shuker 38. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by "Andy Leviss" 39. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Simon Shuker 40. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Richard Niederberg 41. Re: pricing penguins by "John Gibilisco" 42. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Rigger 43. Re: Rental Draperies... help please by Rigger 44. Re: pricing penguins by 45. Re: Video signal routing by Ben Eastep 46. Re: Video signal routing by 47. Now Help Me...Was: Rental Draperies by 48. Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) by 49. Re: salt water dimmers by Dorian Kelly 50. Re: Video signal routing by Dorian Kelly 51. Re: NPR music file? by "Tony Deeming" *** 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. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 12:24:59 +0100 (BST) From: Charlie Richmond Subject: Show-Power mailing list... Message-ID: Hi folks - There has been a new YahooGroups mailing list started called Show-Power: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Show-Power/ The stated purpose of this list is: This group discusses the ins and outs of providing clean and reliable power for all types of shows. There are already 20 members but subscription requires approval (to prevent spam) so please don't expect to get on immediately ;-) Cheers, Charlie + Charlie Richmond - Richmond Sound Design Ltd - Aura Show Control Ltd + + http://www.RichmondSoundDesign.com -- http://www.AuraShowControl.com + +---- "Performance for the Long Run" ----- "Creativity in Control" ----+ ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 11:50:59 -0400 Message-Id: <200406061150.AA590151832 [at] pageant.org> From: "alan " Subject: Video Projector How should I research buying a mid-range ($2500+/-) video projector, for theatre use (which means I don't really have any idea what throw distance, signal format, etc. to expect)? I don't want to start a long thread, off-list replies would be welcome. Thanks. ----------- Alan Symonds TD, Harvard College ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 12:40:31 -0400 Subject: Re: Third Rail Myth From: Bruce Purdy Message-ID: In-Reply-To: > In primary and secondary school context, ADA=Average Daily Attendance. Thanks- now that makes sense. That's the trouble with speaking in acronyms - some have multiple meanings. When in doubt, I refer to http://www.acronymfinder.com but they gave three pages of ADA meanings, and yours was the second from the last. To me ADA automatically means Americans with Disabilities Act. Thanks for the clarification. Bruce -- Bruce Purdy Technical Director Smith Opera House ------------------------------ From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Message-ID: <83.db9c9d7.2df4a8b4 [at] aol.com> Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 13:04:52 EDT Subject: Re: Video signal routing In a message dated 06/06/04 06:19:58 GMT Daylight Time, peterequinlan [at] hotmail.com writes: > I am trying to find a rack mountable video switcher capable of taking inputs > from cameras a computer and a dvd/vcr . Does anyone know of one or where to > > start looking? I am sure that there are many around. Try a Hi-Fi and electronics dealer to start with. Before you do that, though, some questions need to be answered. The most important is: what are the natures of the video feeds? Are they RF, composite (i.e. Pal or NTSC coded) or RGB? Each will need a different switcher. Do you want clean switching (i.e. in field blanking time at least)? This involves you in video delays to achieve some degree of synchronisation of the signals, and doesn't come cheap. Tell us more about the application, and better advice will be forthcoming. Frank Wood ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3509C.4000304 [at] StudioOneSB.com> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 12:13:00 -0500 From: Richard Bakos Organization: Studio One Inc. Subject: video signal routing The other postings mentioned scaling of the incoming signals to a vga format. The other thing to consider is a seamless scaler switcher if you are using this for a screen presentation. Unless you have a seamless model it will go to black between inputs and will not allow you to fade between inputs. Just remember money cures any problem. Rick pete quinlan wrote: > Hello all, > I am trying to find a rack mountable video switcher capable of taking > inputs from cameras a computer and a dvd/vcr . Does anyone know of > one or where to start looking? > regards > Pete Quinlan -- Richard Bakos President Studio One Inc. 25833 State Road 2 South Bend, In 46619-4736 VOICE 574-232-9084 FAX 574-232-2220 Rick [at] StudioOneSB.com www.StudioOnesb.com ------------------------------ From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com Message-ID: <6a.4067a7f9.2df4aae7 [at] aol.com> Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 13:14:15 EDT Subject: Re: Video signal routing In a message dated 06/06/04 06:53:09 GMT Daylight Time, michaelf [at] joyce.eng.yale.edu writes: > You first have to figure out what type of signals you're switching. > Cameras are typically composite (1 wire) or Y/C (2 wires). DVD > players will typically have both of those plus component (3 wire). > Computer outputs are now almost universally RGBHV (5 wire) though > some video cards also have composite and Y/C outputs to display on a > television. When connecting a computer to an external system, a box > known as a 'computer interface' is used to buffer the output and to > give you a connection point for a local monitor. Interesting. There are three replies, so far, all offering the same advice, more or less. All the signals presented to the switcher need to be in the same format, that is sure. What that should be depends on the least flexible piece of gear. Getting the right cables made up may well prove a headache. Frank Wood ------------------------------ Message-ID: <001201c44bee$25b9f4e0$0201a8c0 [at] BRUTUS> From: "Jon Ares" References: Subject: Re: Video signal routing Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 10:46:06 -0700 > Do you want > clean switching (i.e. in field blanking time at least)? This involves you in > video delays to achieve some degree of synchronisation of the signals, and > doesn't come cheap. Frank beat me to the punch. Yes, Vertical Interval, or field blank insert switching would be needed to have a 'clean' switch between sources - so you don't get video roll or whathaveyou every time you switch sources. There are a number of (composite and S-video) switchers out there that have internal frame buffers which will only cut on the source's vertical interval, but they accomplish this by delaying the source a bit - and often at the moment you 'switch,' you'll often see a freeze frame of your outgoing signal, as it waits for the sync to roll around, and inserts the new signal. A little disconcerting to some, but acceptable to others. -- Jon Ares www.hevanet.com/acreative ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 14:02:28 -0400 From: Michael Powers Subject: Adapt or sit on the sidelines Message-id: <1086544948.40c35c342ec96 [at] mail-www3.oit.umass.edu> "Shawn Nolan" Writes: << .... It is both scary and, potentially, beautiful (kudos to Loren). Adapt or sit on the sidelines and drink beer..... >> Shawn, How 'bout "Adapt, get in the game AND drink beer"??? After all I don't want to have to retire to drink beer!! ;-) Michael Michael Powers, Technical Director UMass Theatre Department 112 FAC West 151 Presidents Drive, Ofc.2 Amherst, Ma. 01003-9331 413-545-6821 voice 413-577-0025 fax mfpowers [at] theater.umass.edu ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 14:04:51 -0400 Message-Id: <200406061404.AA293601404 [at] mail.adamb.com> From: "Adam Berns" Subject: Re: Video signal routing We have an extron matrix series. So far, it has been great. Some of their models have computer software for switching (I found this very helpful for doing Laramie Project). They usually have just BNC, for RGB/S, which either for a computer or for just about anything else we have hooked up to it works great. I do believe that you can also get modules designed for either a SVGA or S/Video, or just about anything else as well. ---------- Original Message ---------------------------------- From: "pete quinlan" Reply-To: "Stagecraft" Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 13:19:19 +0800 For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ --------------------------------------------------- Hello all, I am trying to find a rack mountable video switcher capable of taking inputs from cameras a computer and a dvd/vcr . Does anyone know of one or where to start looking? regards Pete Quinlan _________________________________________________________________ FOXTEL Digital - Your ticket to cinema at home: http://ad.au.doubleclick.net/clk;7718915;9123289;x?http://www.foxtel.com.au/Campaign/channelchoice.html ________________________________________________________________ ------------------------------ From: "Jeremiah Minh Greenblatt" Subject: Re: Video signal routing Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 14:18:11 -0400 Message-ID: <000001c44bf2$a0ffbd20$0300a8c0 [at] Roadbox> In-Reply-To: "We have an extron matrix series. " It's been a few years since I've dealt with them but I believe that Extron will also build (for a price) whichever combination of cables you need to use their devices. J.Minh ------------------------------ Message-ID: <002d01c44bf3$0b96e0f0$0202a8c0 [at] laptop> From: "Ian Cunningham" References: Subject: Re: Video signal routing Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 19:20:57 +0100 ----- Original Message ----- From: "pete quinlan" > Hello all, > I am trying to find a rack mountable video switcher capable of taking inputs > from cameras a computer and a dvd/vcr . Does anyone know of one or where to > start looking? > regards > Pete Quinlan If your are outputing to a data projector in RGB, RGBS or RGBHV then look at the fololwing Analogue Way Smart Cut / Smart Fade both will take in 2 computer (HD15) 2 composite, 2 Y/C and 1 RGB/S or YUV input they sync the ouput to the PC input or internal and scale the video inputs up to the resolution of the computer which is then seamlessly switchable/fadeable with any other input or black. The output is in computer RGBS/RGBHV (eg XGA 1024x768) format which feeds the projector/plasma etc at its native resolution. there are other beefier products available from Analog Way www.analogway.com but I've only used the smartfade/cut the FSR Compass is a more advanced switcher with full scaling facilities and can accept any signal type on any input. The Extron SGS offers similar facilities to the Compass S2 at about double the price. Switchers like these are used all the time on conference presentations to switch between PC, dvd, VT and cameras as others have pointed out you can't just swich between formats without conversion - switchers like those above are needed - essentially you need to get all the inputs into 1 format and then switch them. As the output is most often a computer format for projectors or plasmas (and is their native resolution/format) it makes sense to scale video up to the compter signal. I've been a bit brief with this so feel free to ask any questions Ian Cunningham Solus Technical Services ------------------------------ Message-ID: <01f701c44bef$862a69d0$6801a8c0 [at] D7LCXK11> From: "Kevin R. Lowther" References: Subject: Re: plea about format!!!! Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 13:55:58 -0400 Because the original request for a number listed with each posting in the digest was for "digest" subscribers. Sort of hard to take a text document and "sort by subject". And when I'm trying to catch up on over a weeks worth of digests after moving, inspecting, and repairing a very large automated show, I'd much prefer to skip through most of the Wal-Mart and Ring posts. I find reading every 10th post in such a thread does me just fine. I guess in some minds, the numbers make it easier for me to censor some of the posts from myself. Kevin R. Lowther "The Lion King" Gazelle Tour-Automation Carpenter IATSE #15, Seattle, WA Currently in Columbus, OH ----- Original Message ----- Hmm..... If you just want to read each thread as an individual 'story' why not just 'sort by subject'....? Ynot ------------------------------ From: "Rachael Saltzman" Subject: Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 18:37:16 +0000 Message-ID: I've seen Wizards and all of the lord of the rings; here's the question. Someone told me that he also did a movie involving some famous rock personalities. Does anyone know the name of this movie? >From: CB >Reply-To: "Stagecraft" >To: "Stagecraft" >Subject: Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) >Date: Wed, 02 Jun 2004 11:17:12 > >For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending >your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ >--------------------------------------------------- > > > >I lived with Bakshi's animated version for far too long. > >Did that lead you to any of Ralph's earlier works? While most of his >'Fritz' stuff was a rip-off or Robert Crumb, Robert was way too strange to >do anything with it anyways. Bakshi and Crumb are probably responsible for >my taste in women more than anyone else on the planet, and some of my >wierder tastes as well... >Oh, and merely knowing who Bakshi is makes you a geek. > 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... _________________________________________________________________ Watch the online reality show Mixed Messages with a friend and enter to win a trip to NY http://www.msnmessenger-download.click-url.com/go/onm00200497ave/direct/01/ ------------------------------ From: "Rachael Saltzman" Subject: Re: Microvision disks? (boy what a fun list) Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 18:46:20 +0000 Message-ID: OOO! Can I go to Cape Cod? >From: Steve Larson >Reply-To: "Stagecraft" >To: "Stagecraft" >Subject: Re: Microvision disks? (boy what a fun list) >Date: Wed, 02 Jun 2004 13:35:34 -0400 > >For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending >your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ >--------------------------------------------------- > > >Disks are in the mail. > >Steve > >on 6/2/04 12:10 PM, Herrick at Herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com wrote: > > > For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending > > your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ > > --------------------------------------------------- > > > > > > OK stop already! At this point I'll be the worlds largest clearing > > house for DS/DD disks!! > > > > Steve Larson may be mailing me some. Voytko is in the East Village (I > > may drive by tomorrow) with a few, and Aldous if you are in the office > > tomorrow I'll stop by to say hi anyway. > > > > For reference I am not incapable of sourcing these disks on my own. I > > was just trying to find out which disks I need. (I will however take > > all donations) > > > > Also since the rest of the gang should be recognized. I'm going to > > request that Cape Rep Theatre put special thanks in the program to > > Stagecraft. > > > > Due to the response to the 3 questions I have posted for my production > > of "Glass Menagerie" I have or will have received the generous help and > > loans of: > > > > 1. Strand BP "Followspot" (a la Les Mis) > > > > 1. Microvison with working capacitor for hard memory > > > > Multiple offers of DS/DD disks > > > > an offer of storage space should I not be in town to pick up said BP > > spotlight. > > > > an offer of pick up, delivery, and return for repair of my original > > microvision's capacitor. > > > > beyond all that i have a great excuse to meet a few folks i've never > > met before and to go visit some folks I haven't seen in awhile. > > > > Thanks go out to the following generous folks: > > > > Steve Litterst > > > > Steve Bailey > > > > Steve Larson > > > > (what's with the helpful Steve's?) > > > > Ken Romaine > > > > Andrew Nikel > > > > Sara Clausen > > > > Aaron Meadow > > > > The afore mentioned Voytko and Aldous. > > > > FWIW It sounds like I have a few spare rooms on Cape Cod for about 10 > > days starting next Monday. Come visit and bring a wrench. :) > > > > I gotta start asking for better gear..I wonder what else we could get. > > Anyone have any Space Cannons lying around? My AD is wrestling with > > procuring "Magic Lantern" projections. How about a Catalyst?(kidding > > i'm kidding..we don't have the room) > > > > Thanks Y'all > > > > _H > > > > > > On Wednesday, Jun 2, 2004, at 11:24 America/New_York, Brian Aldous > > wrote: > > > >> > >> Where are you exactly? Would I be out of line if I just sent you half > >> a dozen DD disks for your very own? > >> > >> BA > >> > >> > >> > > Herrick Goldman > > Lighting Designer, NYC > > www.HGLightingDesign.com > > > > "To the scores of silent alchemists who wreak their joy in darkness and > > in light bringing magic to life, we bow most humbly. "-CDS > > > > > > > _________________________________________________________________ Check out the coupons and bargains on MSN Offers! http://youroffers.msn.com ------------------------------ From: "Rachael Saltzman" Subject: Re: Guinness Arbor Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 19:02:45 +0000 Message-ID: Automated rigging systems already exist. There is one up in Rhinebeck NY at a community theater. It is known as 'The Juggler' and is most commonly found on disney cruise ships. >From: b Ricie >Reply-To: "Stagecraft" >To: "Stagecraft" >Subject: Guinness Arbor >Date: Wed, 2 Jun 2004 08:47:33 -0700 (PDT) > >For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending >your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ >--------------------------------------------------- > > >As I stated, the "Liquid" arbor has been floating >around my head for a while, as well as each time I >have to make a trek to a loading rail. Another added >benefit to a dense liquid arbor would be the ability >to change the weight in the arbor as the weight on the >pipe changes. No more having to run the legs in order >to build enough steam to land them. Gosh, I am sure >you could throw a computer into the mix that was told >to keep the arbor in perfect balance at all times. >Yes, I am aware that would take work away from a human >and give a job to a machine, but seeing how it is now, >I would be happy to give up that part of my work. > >===== >Brian Rice >b_ricie [at] yahoo.com > > > > >__________________________________ >Do you Yahoo!? >Friends. Fun. Try the all-new Yahoo! Messenger. >http://messenger.yahoo.com/ _________________________________________________________________ MSN 9 Dial-up Internet Access fights spam and pop-ups – now 3 months FREE! http://join.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200361ave/direct/01/ ------------------------------ Message-Id: <6.1.1.1.0.20040606125117.026e2c50 [at] localhost> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 12:58:57 -0700 From: Jerry Durand Subject: Re: Video signal routing In-Reply-To: References: At 10:46 AM 6/6/2004, you wrote: >Frank beat me to the punch. Yes, Vertical Interval, or field blank insert >switching would be needed to have a 'clean' switch between sources - so you >don't get video roll or whathaveyou every time you switch sources. There >are a number of (composite and S-video) switchers out there that have >internal frame buffers which will only cut on the source's vertical >interval, but they accomplish this by delaying the source a bit - and often >at the moment you 'switch,' you'll often see a freeze frame of your outgoing >signal, as it waits for the sync to roll around, and inserts the new signal. >A little disconcerting to some, but acceptable to others. The scan-converter I designed for an LCD projector switches on the front end and buffers the output. That way you only have one bank of memory. On a source-switch you could have a frame or so of delay before the output is updated (with the output appearing frozen for that time). Also, in mine since the output is at 70+ frames/second it's never in sync with the input. I just let the input update the frame buffer as it came in (interlaced) and the frame buffer was simultaneously read out at 70+ f/s progressive. This means that the output frame could easily have part of two different input frames in it. The engineers and other test people never saw a problem and this converter was actually used to evaluate LCDs and to test production projectors. One thing people REALLY liked was the freeze-frame capability this allowed, simply cut off the input and you have an instant freeze. ---------- Jerry Durand Durand Interstellar, Inc. 219 Oak Wood Way Los Gatos, California 95032-2523 USA tel: +1 408 356-3886 fax: +1 408 356-4659 web: www.interstellar.com ------------------------------ Message-ID: <20040606200311.34398.qmail [at] web52008.mail.yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 13:03:11 -0700 (PDT) From: Jacqueline Haney Kidwell Subject: pricing penguins In-Reply-To: I know this group will know the answer... I foolishly volunteered to find out a piece of information, namely what it would cost to hire one penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for two weekends of performances. Walk-on (waddle-on?) only, no speaking part. There's no serious intention of hiring this bird, but the production meeting/potluck/party last night got more and more silly. I'd just like to know where I could get a rough ballpark figure without irritating someone serious. Thanks! Jacki __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Friends. Fun. Try the all-new Yahoo! Messenger. http://messenger.yahoo.com/ ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C37C2A.3000104 [at] davidmarks.cc> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 16:18:50 -0400 From: David Marks Subject: Re: pricing penguins References: Jacqueline Haney Kidwell wrote: >I know this group will know the answer... > >I foolishly volunteered to find out a piece of >information, namely what it would cost to hire one >penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for >two weekends of performances. > Believe it or not, I actually have hired a penguin once! I believe it was around $1000 for the day (they are a specialty animal, for sure) Where are you located? We got our penguin from Animal Actors in New Jersery. There are a number of trainers around the country who specialize in film/tv work and carry a menagerie of animals. Dave Marks ------------------------------ Message-Id: <3.0.6.32.20040606125150.0169a9f0 [at] pop.west.cox.net> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 12:51:50 From: CB Subject: plea about format!!!! >If you just want to read each thread as an individual 'story' why not just >'sort by subject'....? If you get the digest, then all it will do is move the entire digest up or down in your list of e-mails waiting to be read. The digest brings you all of the posts in one giant e-mail. And, I apologize for the clumsy spelling yesterday. If my life continues as it presently goes. that may continue. I'll get some rest soon, (when I'm dead) and it may get better. And no, spell check is NOT an option (long story). 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: <3.0.6.32.20040606125857.0169a9f0 [at] pop.west.cox.net> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 12:58:57 From: CB Subject: Re: Video signal routing > When projecting >computer feeds generally you >want to run the VGA signal off the computer, (or DVI?) not a composite or >any of the signals you can pull off your cameras and dvd/vcrs. Since VGA is >a different cable, signal type, and socket on the projector, its hard imagine >that signal going through any compatable switching device. Now of course, >many newer video cards can ouput a composite signal, but the picture quality >is generally somewhat lacking, due to the resolution conversion. Two of my laptops output S-VHS, or Y-C composite, and the switcher we had in yesterday had two inputs with Y-C inputs available. Output of the switcher went straight to the projectors and Tiger Woods 2K looked pretty good. Most pro switchers (other than the Big Boy eleventeen input jobs) come in a standard rack width, and there is some rather expensive rack-ear setup available. 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: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 17:28:49 -0400 From: Rigger Subject: Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) At 6:37 PM +0000 6/6/04, Rachael Saltzman wrote: > I've seen Wizards and all of the lord of the rings; here's > the question. Someone told me that he also did a movie > involving some famous rock personalities. Does anyone know > the name of this movie? In what context were they involved? Bakshi did something like 68 features, most of which have heavy pop & rock soundtracks. "American Pop" might be what you're thinking of, OTOH maybe not. -- Dave Vick, IATSE #274 Head Electrician, The Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University Carpe Per Diem ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C38E9F.20308 [at] fuse.net> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 17:37:35 -0400 From: Stuart Wheaton Subject: Re: Automation, Counterweight rigging and many related topics References: In-Reply-To: Shawn Nolan wrote: > Another somewhat pertinent anecdote: During my first serious > encounter with automation (a 1991 production of Christmas Carol > which, believe it or not, is still running…with many updated > machines…[thanks Stirling]) we had a programmer out from the > local Allen Bradley rep to give us a hand. Ahh, the joys of > ladder logic. He came in one evening and told us he’d had a > bad day. It seems he was doing some programming at the local > steel mill (A.K. Steel in Middletown) and, due to a ladder > logic error had “snapped a 1” diameter wire rope…”. Just due > to a few errant key strokes… I was a spotlight op for this show! One thing I remember was how long and complex the process in ladder logic was to reset things so we could run a scene shift again in tech reheasals. I've worked with newer, more sophisticated automated rigging systems since then, and resetting scenery can now be almost as painless as restoring a previous lighting cue. I haven't been part of CC since that first year, and at the time it was absolutely amazing to watch it run! A very neat, complex show! Stuart ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 14:44:55 -0700 Subject: Re: pricing penguins Message-ID: <20040606.144509.2832.0.ladesigners [at] juno.com> From: Richard Niederberg In Hollywood, there are rental houses that supply penguins, and every other kind of animal. Remember, Teamsters are to be hired to wrangle all animals, including birds, snakes, spiders, etc, on a set. It matters not if you have teams of horses, dogs, mules, ferrets, or whatever: in LA, Teamsters Local 399 are the wranglers. Please price your faux penguin supply bid accordingly! On the southern beaches of Argentina, north of Tierra del Fuego, penguins are as plentiful, and are just as much as a nuisance, as seagulls are at LA beaches. Some pet stores sell penguins; it might be cheaper to buy than to rent, once you factor in the labor and delivery costs. /s/ Richard > I foolishly volunteered to find out a piece of > information, namely what it would cost to hire one > penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for > two weekends of performances. Walk-on > (waddle-on?) only, no speaking part. > There's no serious intention of hiring this bird, but > the production meeting/potluck/party last night got > more and more silly. I'd just like to know where I > could get a rough ballpark figure without irritating > someone serious. > Thanks! > Jacki ________________________________________________________________ The best thing to hit the Internet in years - Juno SpeedBand! Surf the Web up to FIVE TIMES FASTER! Only $14.95/ month - visit www.juno.com to sign up today! ------------------------------ From: ken [at] kenholyoak.com (Ken Holyoak) Cc: stagecraft-web [at] theprices.net ('Noah Price') Subject: This is what I sent All Plan test ?? Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 17:28:40 -0500 Message-ID: <00d401c44c15$9e81d6f0$0900a8c0 [at] COMPAQ> If you eMail me off list I will give you a link to my wholesale distributor - pick what you want and I can get you a discounted quote. Kenneth. H. Holyoak HIG, LLC Information + Insight = Profit POB 68633 Indianapolis, IN 46268-0633 ken [at] kenholyoak.com 317-253-7000 Kenneth. H. Holyoak Information + Insight = Profit POB 68633 Indianapolis, IN 46268-0633 ken [at] kenholyoak.com 317-253-7000 ------------------------------ Message-ID: <001501c44c2c$ae45d2a0$3bedbed0 [at] hppav> From: "Joe Meils" References: Subject: Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 20:13:45 -0500 "American Pop" (a thoroughly depressing movie...) ------------------------------ From: "pete quinlan" Subject: Video signal routing Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 09:25:59 +0800 Message-ID: Hello again, I am using the switcher in a stage management console I have been asked to design. The spec asks for two LCD monitors capable displaying feeds from up to eight sources including cameras a computer and a DVD/VCR. My Idea was that if I can have some sort of switcher set up so that the SM can quickly and easily assign what source is going to which monitor. The main idea of the whole project is to create a console that is portable and adaptable. Thanks for your help Pete Quinlan _________________________________________________________________ Open an Online Savings Account today & collect a bonus $30*! http://clk.atdmt.com/1DG/go/hsb005000991dg/direct/01/ ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3D205.5050803 [at] JosephCHansen.com> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 22:25:09 -0400 From: barney Subject: Rental Draperies... help please References: In-Reply-To: As some you know, I bought JC Hansen Co, primarily a drapery rental house, a couple of years ago. I have a problem with a customer now, and I would like to deal with it fairly and honestly, and he’s brought up some things I’d like help with. The story: I was contacted about needing to rent a red traveler velour curtain and a valance. Okay, They wanted want sounded like traveler halves so I offered to stitch a couple of drapes together to make a pair. 4 [at] 13’ wide become 2 [at] 26’ wide. First admission: that might not have been the best answer; the stitching was a bit puckered where they were joined (photos available at www.jchansen.com/problem.html Monday morning 6/7). I cannot rightly say what relationship the person who called and I spoke to had to anything… I’ve ended up speaking to the presenters, the venue, and the production manager. The drapes we sent were 8 – 10 years old, cleaned and re-flame proofed within the last 3 years and are rented out fairly often (at least three times in the last year). When drapes are returned we inspect and vacuum them, fold on the seams and roll them up. We then store them in canvas bags. The drapes were returned wet, and having laid them out to dry, all the salts are now huge white stains. (Photo are at the website above). What the final representative of the customer I spoke to said: 1) The drapes were in bad condition, looking like they had been stored in the bag and terribly winkled, and not long for this world as it was. 2) The drapes were puckered where we had joined them. 3) He’d never worked with unlined drapes. 4) These really were not actually ‘drapes’ because they were sewn without fullness. 5) They crew used a Hudson sprayer, on the back, to dampen the drapes, the only way to make them usable. 6) What recourse did they have as they hung the drapes on Friday night, Hansen’s not open on the weekend, and the show was Sunday night? 7) They do not feel that that they should pay the damages because what were they to do? Okay, where to start? A couple of MY questions: #3: does anyone rent lined drapes? #6: Should I do something different? The drapes they received were the only ones I had that fit their specs, and there was nothing that I could have done to make it better. Okay, comments please…Thanks Barney JC Hansen Co. NYC ------------------------------ From: Bsapsis [at] aol.com Message-ID: <8b.ccac8b6.2df53040 [at] aol.com> Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 22:43:12 EDT Subject: Re: Adapt or sit on the sidelines In a message dated 6/6/04 2:03:53 PM, mfpowers [at] theater.umass.edu writes: << Shawn, How 'bout "Adapt, get in the game AND drink beer"??? After all I don't want to have to retire to drink beer!! ;-) >> What Mike really means is....You can't play the game while you're drinking. After the game is over..no problem. But not during. If causing an accident and possibly hurting/killing someone isn't enough of a deterrent, then maybe this is....If there is an accident and someone gets hurt or killed, and you don't pass the drug/sobriety test...you get to be Bubba's love slave. (ie..you get to go to jail and not pass Go and not collect $200) Right Mike? That's what you meant, right? Bill S. Sapsis Rigging, Inc. www.sapsis-rigging.com 800.727.7471 800.292.3851 fax 267.278.4561 mobile We stand behind, our work. and under, ------------------------------ From: Bsapsis [at] aol.com Message-ID: <1aa.24e94234.2df53231 [at] aol.com> Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 22:51:29 EDT Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please In a message dated 6/6/04 10:26:25 PM, barney [at] JosephCHansen.com writes: << Okay, comments please=E2=80=A6Thanks >> My opinion....They should have had a weekend emergency number where they=20 could have called you (or your rep) and told you what the problem was. Then= =20 everyone could have decided what to do. Without that number I'm sure they f= elt=20 backed into a corner and had to do something. =20 The question I always ask myself in these situations (and there are=20 waaaaaaaay too many of them of late)....Is this hill worth dying for? If ye= s, then I=20 fight tooth and nail for what I believe is right and fair. If not, I move o= n. Just my $.02 Be well Bill S. Sapsis Rigging, Inc. www.sapsis-rigging.com 800.727.7471 800.292.3851 fax 267.278.4561 mobile We stand behind, our work. and under,=20 ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 23:05:36 -0400 From: Michael Feinberg Subject: Re: Video signal routing >I am using the switcher in a stage management console I have been >asked to design. The spec asks for two LCD monitors capable >displaying feeds from up to eight sources including cameras a >computer and a DVD/VCR. My Idea was that if I can have some sort of >switcher set up so that the SM can quickly and easily assign what >source is going to which monitor. The main idea of the whole >project is to create a console that is portable and adaptable. Well you still haven't said exactly what type of signals you're dealing with (probably because your client hasn't said,) but now I can guess. Small (<10") LCD displays for monitoring purposes usually have composite or Y/C inputs. Large (>15") LCD displays are generally designed as computer monitors and have a RGBHV inputs on a HD15 connector. I'm going to assume your console has a pair of small LCDs and since you're using your switcher for monitoring rather than projection, it will be fine to use composite video for all of your sources. The cameras and DVD/VCR should already have composite outputs, but you'll need to run the computer through a scan converter before the switcher. Since you have multiple sources that you want to send to multiple displays, you'll likely want a matrix switcher, which can send any input to any output. The product I would recommend for this application is the Kramer VS-802xl (http://www.kramerelectronics.com/indexes/desc.asp?p=VS-802xl) It is a 2 rack unit 8x2 composite video and balanced audio vertical interval matrix switcher. List price is around $1500. The reason I like this unit is that control on it is very simple. It simply has two rows of eight buttons, one row for each output each row having one button for each input. With a little labeling, it should be very intuitive for anyone to bring up the correct source on the correct monitor. Most other matrix switchers operate on a patch based system where you first select an input and then select the output to route it to, which can require some training to understand. Hope this helps. -Michael Feinberg, CTS ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 23:13:14 -0400 From: Rigger Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please At 10:25 PM -0400 6/6/04, barney wrote: > The drapes they received were the only ones I had that > fit their specs, and there was nothing that I could > have done to make it better. Ummmm.... I'm not so sure. IMO, they only more-or-less fit the specs, because of the stitching. But if the client thinks it's a shoddy stitching job, it's shoddy - remember, the client is frequently an ill-informed jerk, but he is also *always* right. I kinda think if I were in your shoes, I'd've told 'em "sorry; I've nothing in the inventory" and maybe recommended another shop that did have a real full-stage traveler that *did* fit the spec. You may not have made any money on the rental *this* time around, but the goodwill you would've accrued would've no doubt generated more rentals form this client on down the road. As it is, you'll be remembered all right, but not really in a way I suspect you want to be remembered. (OTOH, I'm just a dumb Local Yokel; what do I know?) Also, WHY IN THE WORLD don't you have a weekend emergency contact number??? -- Dave Vick, IATSE #274 Head Electrician (and former rag-puller), The Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University Carpe Per Diem ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3DE56.3080802 [at] fuse.net> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 23:17:42 -0400 From: Stuart Wheaton Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please References: In-Reply-To: barney wrote: > What the final representative of the customer I spoke to said: > > 1) The drapes were in bad condition, looking like they had been stored > in the bag and terribly winkled, and not long for this world as it was. > > 2) The drapes were puckered where we had joined them. > > 3) He’d never worked with unlined drapes. > > 4) These really were not actually ‘drapes’ because they were sewn > without fullness. > > 5) They crew used a Hudson sprayer, on the back, to dampen the drapes, > the only way to make them usable. > > 6) What recourse did they have as they hung the drapes on Friday night, > Hansen’s not open on the weekend, and the show was Sunday night? > > 7) They do not feel that that they should pay the damages because what > were they to do? > > Okay, where to start? A couple of MY questions: > > #3: does anyone rent lined drapes? > > #6: Should I do something different? The drapes they received were the > only ones I had that fit their specs, and there was nothing that I could > have done to make it better. Get a cell phone, and list the number on a card you send out with all your rentals, indicate clearly that the number is for emergency calls outside of business hours only. Carry the phone weekends and evenings, or assign a trusted employee 'on call' duty. That way the excuse about not reaching you becomes bunk. You may have provided the closest thing you had to meeting their needs, but was it able to meet their needs? If not, perhaps you needed to let the job pass, or sub out the curtain. I refer to shipping goods without fullness as traveller goods, esp in red velour. Could your sewing shop have basted webbing to the tops to add the fullness? Since the drapes were out of their bags to sew them together, can your seamsters verify that they were not overly wrinkled when they were shipped? How did they bag up the new panels that were 2x the volume of the original goods? Regardless of the condition of the goods, soaking with a hudson so that the goods are still wet when shipped home is just plain wrong. Light misting should solve any solvable problems. I presume there was chain or some sort of weight in the bottom hem. Since the water damaged your goods in a way that will prevent you from renting them in the future, and the water was applied by the client, they probably owe you for the value (amortized) of the goods. But you sent something that allegedly didn't meet their needs, so you probably owe them some kind of refund / rate reduction. Somewhere in the middle this probably balances out. But the big question may be whether you and the original caller agreed to use what you sent, or not. You always treated me fairly when you sold me stuff in your previous career, so I am sure you did your best for these guys. I guess part of the equation will be whether the client is important. If they represent thousands of dollars in current or near future business, then make nice and eat it. Otherwise, for a one shot deal, I'd be pretty pissed that even though the goods were not what they wanted, now they are useless to anybody. Good luck Barney, It's a tough spot to be in. Stuart ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3E46D.9070600 [at] JosephCHansen.com> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 23:43:41 -0400 From: barney Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please References: In-Reply-To: Bsapsis [at] aol.com wrote: >My opinion....They should have had a weekend emergency number where they >could have called you (or your rep) and told you what the problem was. > That is one of the many things that was not in place when I took over... With business growing, maybe it is something we need. >Is this hill worth dying for? > > I'm always torn between what is 'right' (these drapes are now totally unusable the way they were returned) and what helps get the next job: If I fight and 'win'do they ever actually call back? If not who really won? >Just my $.02 > And an undervalued bargin at that. Barney ------------------------------ From: "Matthew Breton" Subject: Re: pricing penguins Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 23:48:12 -0400 Message-ID: >I foolishly volunteered to find out a piece of information, namely what it >would cost to hire one >penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for two weekends of >performances. Walk-on (waddle-on?) only, no speaking part. That's not foolish at all. On some shows I've witnessed, I'd rather be watching penguins. Believe it or not, there's a animal-performer company whose website has penguins on the front page. The little bird has a sign around its neck. You could probably replace it with the appropriate Shakespearean quote (or Beckett; I think penguins like Beckett better.) It's www.animalschool.net -- but I'm not certain they rent or travel their performers. That's an issue for either the ASPCA or Equity to address. Or both. Matthew Breton Technical Director Green Street Studios _________________________________________________________________ MSN 9 Dial-up Internet Access fights spam and pop-ups – now 3 months FREE! http://join.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200361ave/direct/01/ ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3E5A7.5050707 [at] JosephCHansen.com> Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2004 23:48:55 -0400 From: barney Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please References: In-Reply-To: Rigger wrote: > I kinda think if I were in your shoes, I'd've told 'em "sorry; I've > nothing in the inventory" and maybe recommended another shop that did > have a real full-stage traveler that *did* fit the spec. You may not > have made any money on the rental *this* time around, but the goodwill > you would've accrued would've no doubt generated more rentals form > this client on down the road. This begs the question is it better to say no visit my major competator, or to try and help... always a tough call. > (OTOH, I'm just a dumb Local Yokel; what do I know?) Quite a bit actually > Also, WHY IN THE WORLD don't you have a weekend emergency contact > number??? I realize that "I did not inherit one when I bought the company" and "Too large a percentage of my business does not need it" are not good answers... So I'm working on a better one. Barney ------------------------------ Message-ID: <40C3EAEC.9010400 [at] JosephCHansen.com> Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 00:11:24 -0400 From: barney Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please References: In-Reply-To: Stuart Wheaton wrote: > Get a cell phone, and list the number on a card you send out with all > your rentals, indicate clearly that the number is for emergency calls > outside of business hours only. My 'fear' is that one person's emergency... but certainly in THIS case, it might have been worth it. As a story...my wife's the Op Dir at a theatre in here in NY, her office message is that "if this is an emergency, call my cell," Most calls are "I'd like to book the space in six months, is this a good time to talk?" > You may have provided the closest thing you had to meeting their > needs, but was it able to meet their needs? I thought I tried... I sent color/fabric samples... I explained everything (maybe to the wrong person). > You always treated me fairly when you sold me stuff in your previous > career, so I am sure you did your best for these guys. I do always TRY to, thanks for the vote of confidence. > I guess part of the equation will be whether the client is important. > If they represent thousands of dollars in current or near future > business, then make nice and eat it. Otherwise, for a one shot deal, > I'd be pretty pissed that even though the goods were not what they > wanted, now they are useless to anybody. Does one ever know? I always assume yes, they could call back, maybe they produce shows every year (I have a $10k client every May), every month, or every week; maybe this show will move (I made all the softgoods for an off-broadway show that moved to Broadway and just won a Tony... the show, not the drapes) I have no way of knowing... they seem to have potential as bigger fish. Barney ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 08:10:42 +0400 From: Simon Shuker Subject: Re: pricing penguins In-reply-to: Message-id: <0HYX00KLA7LZYM [at] apmail4.emirates.net.ae> In Britain you can get a Penguin in any supermarket! Just take one each to the next meeting! Simon -----Original Message----- From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Matthew Breton Sent: Monday, June 07, 2004 7:48 AM To: Stagecraft Subject: Re: pricing penguins For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ --------------------------------------------------- >I foolishly volunteered to find out a piece of information, namely what it >would cost to hire one >penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for two weekends of >performances. Walk-on (waddle-on?) only, no speaking part. That's not foolish at all. On some shows I've witnessed, I'd rather be watching penguins. Believe it or not, there's a animal-performer company whose website has penguins on the front page. The little bird has a sign around its neck. You could probably replace it with the appropriate Shakespearean quote (or Beckett; I think penguins like Beckett better.) It's www.animalschool.net -- but I'm not certain they rent or travel their performers. That's an issue for either the ASPCA or Equity to address. Or both. Matthew Breton Technical Director Green Street Studios _________________________________________________________________ MSN 9 Dial-up Internet Access fights spam and pop-ups - now 3 months FREE! http://join.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200361ave/direct/01/ ------------------------------ From: "Andy Leviss" Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 00:22:12 -0400 Message-ID: <000401c44c47$024064a0$6700a8c0 [at] AndyLeviss> In-Reply-To: Barney wrote: > This begs the question is it better to say no visit my major > competator, > or to try and help... always a tough call. It's neither "begging the question" nor a tough call (the former is a fact of English language, the latter my personal opinion). I'll detail in reverse order, to keep the on-topic stuff first. It's not a tough call at all. You need to phrase it right; you're not saying, "I'm really not very good, you should go to the better guy," but saying, "I happen to not have what you need, and don't want to try to pawn something else off on you in an attempt to make a few bucks. I know somebody else who does have what you need, and I'm confident that you'll appreciate my honesty and my help and, in the future, you'll come back to me." To put it another way, the choice is between sending out a less-than-ideal solution and appearing to be desperate for the job and not to care about the customer's needs, or being dedicated enough to the customer's needs that you don't mind passing the business on when somebody else is better suited for the job. As for "begging the question", it's a personal "Aargh!" of mine when people misuse this phrase. It does NOT mean that a statement implicitly demands an answer to a certain question. Begging the question is a poor debating strategy, wherein the speaker uses the point he's trying to argue to argue itself. An example would be if I were to tell you that Keanu Reeves is a terrible actor because he's really bad. FWIW, Andy P.S.-See, I was good--I resisted the urge to use as my example, "People who misuse the phrase 'begs the question' are dumb because they're stupid." (Which they're not, I should add, but the evil part of me did think it would be funny :o) --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.682 / Virus Database: 444 - Release Date: 5/11/2004 ------------------------------ Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 08:28:00 +0400 From: Simon Shuker Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please In-reply-to: Message-id: <0HYX00ISJ8EQNU [at] apmail4.emirates.net.ae> Just a couple of questions 1) How much lead time did you get? 2) When was the drape delivered? 3) Did they tell you they had wet it or did you find out when you unpacked it and the complaints came when you started asking about it? 4) What type of customer was it commercial or am dram / school etc I always find that these questions make some difference to the "ownership" of the problem. People ring up at the last minute wanting something that is not in stock but can be adapted, you deliver it then it sits until they want to use it and it's a problem. Simon ------------------------------ Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2004 22:26:24 -0700 Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please Message-ID: <20040606.222632.1396.0.ladesigners [at] juno.com> From: Richard Niederberg The word from here is to salvage the drapes if you can, and put the incident behind you. I have suffered some short-term losses by renting to the wrong customer or failing to evaluate a customers needs and capabilities in making a rented item work for them. Allow the refund. Of course, it would have been better for your long term business to hand off this one to a colleague who could then safely return the favor. Taking the high ground, even when the discrepancy it is not strictly your fault, is the right way to grow your business, and is well worth it. /s/ Richard > Okay, comments please…Thanks > Barney ________________________________________________________________ The best thing to hit the Internet in years - Juno SpeedBand! Surf the Web up to FIVE TIMES FASTER! Only $14.95/ month - visit www.juno.com to sign up today! ------------------------------ Message-ID: <003701c44c50$b4bd0e40$0200a8c0 [at] om.cox.net> From: "John Gibilisco" References: Subject: Re: pricing penguins Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 00:31:38 -0500 ----- Original Message ----- From: "Jacqueline Haney Kidwell" > information, namely what it would cost to hire one > penguin (any variety), presumably with trainer, for > two weekends of performances. Walk-on (waddle-on?) > only, no speaking part. Perhaps you could find out who handled the penguin in the Roundabout Theater's somewhat recent production of "The Man Who Came To Dinner". Cute little penguin waddled out at the end of the act, drew a big laugh and the curtain came in. Best, John Gibilisco Omaha Playhouse ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 01:49:37 -0400 From: Rigger Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please At 11:48 PM -0400 6/6/04, barney wrote: > is it better to say no visit my major competator, > or to try and help... always a tough call. Not a tough call at all. If you can't service the client's needs, it's better to hand the business off. I've done that many-many times in my business life, in this craft and in many other trades, and it's *never* come back to bite me. In most cases, it's been lucrative bordering on downright silly. Your competitor will return the favor down the road, and the client will value your honesty much higher than if you'd not met his needs, however valiantly you tried, which translates into "big follow-up sales". I can't speak for anyone but myself, but I'll tell you that if I were your client, I'd *much* rather you had told me at the onset that you didn't have what I needed but could steer me toward someone that did. Much as I might appreciate the effort you went through to *try* to meed my needs, we must emphasize that the operative word here is "try", and not "meet". I guarantee that if you'd passed me on to another studio, I'd be *much* more inclined to toss business your way than if you'd done to me what you've done to your client-in-question. ...And I'm confident your client feels the same way. -- Dave Vick, IATSE #274 Head Electrician, The Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University Carpe Per Diem ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 01:54:20 -0400 From: Rigger Subject: Re: Rental Draperies... help please At 11:43 PM -0400 6/6/04, barney wrote: > I'm always torn between what is 'right' (these drapes are now > totally unusable the way they were returned) and what helps > get the next job: If I fight and 'win'do they ever actually > call back? If not who really won? But if the client thinks they were "unusable" for their needs as they initially left your shop, it's kind of a wash in the Blame Game - a game, btw, that no one can win... I hate to say it, but I kinda think you're going to have to eat this one, if for no other reason for the sake of your business reputation. (So you see, you might as well have passed it on to the competition, as you're not going to make anything off the rental anyway.) -- Dave Vick, IATSE #274 Head Electrician, The Wharton Center for Performing Arts at Michigan State University Carpe Per Diem ------------------------------ From: Subject: Re: pricing penguins Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 2:02:54 -0400 Message-Id: <20040607060254.CJHU1360.de-fe02.dejazzd.com [at] de-fe02> > Cute little penguin waddled out at the end of the act, drew a big laugh and > the curtain came in. Not what you are looking for but our production of "Into the Woods" produced a good laugh with the plastic radio controlled chicken that wandered across the stage. Don't try it if laughter is not appropriate. Greg Bierly Hempfield HS ------------------------------ Subject: Re: Video signal routing From: Ben Eastep In-Reply-To: References: Message-Id: <1086588338.12267.6.camel [at] fish.home> Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 00:05:38 -0600 > Hello again, > I am using the switcher in a stage management console I have been asked to > design. The spec asks for two LCD monitors capable displaying feeds from up > to eight sources including cameras a computer and a DVD/VCR. My Idea was > that if I can have some sort of switcher set up so that the SM can quickly > and easily assign what source is going to which monitor. The main idea of > the whole project is to create a console that is portable and adaptable. > > Thanks for your help > Pete Quinlan Some LCD panels (mostly the ones sold as tvs have a boatload of inputs built in... A glance around the net found me this: http://www.avdeals.com/samsunglcd/ltn1565.htm (that's in no way an indorcement of avdeals. I've never heard of them before) In short, its a 15" lcd panel HDTV, with VGA, component (x2), and S-Video inputs... With 2 of those you might be able to at least greatly simplify your external switching needs... And I'm sure there are many others similar units to choose from... Of course, The built in speakers will waste some space, but still... might be a direction to at least look at... Ben Eastep ------------------------------ From: Subject: Re: Video signal routing Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 2:12:07 -0400 Message-Id: <20040607061207.CLMV1360.de-fe02.dejazzd.com [at] de-fe02> > design. The spec asks for two LCD monitors capable displaying feeds from up > to eight sources including cameras a computer and a DVD/VCR. My second post of the night that won't directly help you. We purchased a 17"LCD computer monitor for the FOH position from BJ's (wholesale club) for $599 that had composite, and S-video in along with the RGB and a built in cable/antenna tuner. It also has built in speakers. Prior to that I had purchased a video game switcher on ebay for [at] $100 that allowed 4 composite video sources to sequentially be switched to a VGA computer monitor. For what it sounds like you are doing you don't need to pay for seamless switching or the like. For inexpesive I would look at trying to have all the vga sources on one monitor and all the composite/s-video sources on the other and then a standard VGA switch and a small passive Y/C switcher would work with some Y/C to composite adapters (MCM electronics for a couple of bucks) Good luck. Greg Bierly Hempfield HS ------------------------------ From: Subject: Now Help Me...Was: Rental Draperies Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 2:28:43 -0400 Message-Id: <20040607062843.CPHX1360.de-fe02.dejazzd.com [at] de-fe02> Barney, Bill or anyone in the vicinity to South Central PA. My leading edge of my SR panel of the main traveler gave way this weekend. I noticed for about a week it was dragging a little but didn't think too much about it. We went to close it last night for the top of the show and it didn't close completely. After a trip up on the lift I discovered the first two snap clips pulled away from the drape (thus the master carrier) and the small webbing that held the snap clips to the main webbing also pulled away. The stitching between the two webbings is completely gone. Any ideas on the best route for repair? I don't have the specs available and forget who supplied the rag originally but this is my main rag and is dead hung, sewn in heavy fullness, heavy weight velour or the like, and lined with a snap in lining, with a prosc opening of 21'h x 54' w. Taking it down will be no easy chore. I folded it back to the next "structurally sound" clip and clamped the excess to the carriers (and saftied the clamps). I have productions through the end of June and can probably limp though till then. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated. Vendor/Contractors are more than welcome to contact me directly Monday at (717)898-5640 or greg_bierly [at] hempfield.k12.pa.us Thanks Greg Bierly Hempfield HS ------------------------------ From: Subject: Re: Rings (warning: almost completely OT) Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 2:32:33 -0400 Message-Id: <20040607063233.CQDH1360.de-fe02.dejazzd.com [at] de-fe02> try the wonders of "google" start with "Bakshi rock and roll" and see where that takes you. (I found American Pop on the third entry) Greg Bierly Hempfield HS ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: References: Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 09:03:37 +0100 From: Dorian Kelly Subject: Re: salt water dimmers >> A couple of things here - salt water dimmers were used in some >> theatres through the 1950s and I think they would work better in the >> long run with AC than with DC si... (snipped) This is a great example of synthesis at work in the theatre- Karl talking about water dimmers and others talking about pissing on the third rail . Thats exactly how water dimmers used to be topped up and re-electrolyted at the same time. It is nor recorded whether anyone actually did it while the things were live. Dorian Dorian Kelly Illuminati Creative Technology Colchester UK ------------------------------ Message-Id: In-Reply-To: Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 09:08:38 +0100 From: Dorian Kelly Subject: Re: Video signal routing >For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending >your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ >--------------------------------------------------- > > >Hello all, >I am trying to find a rack mountable video switcher capable of taking inputs >from cameras a computer and a dvd/vcr . Does anyone know of one or where to >start looking? >regards >Pete Quinlan > Strikes me that all the above can output firewire - plug em into your mac and then use software switchers. If quality is not a huge issue, security spy shareware is worth looking at as a four-source switcher. Dorian Dorian Kelly Illuminati Creative Technology, Colchester UK ------------------------------ Message-ID: <00e301c44c6a$5fc18960$0a01a8c0 [at] Tony> From: "Tony Deeming" References: Subject: Re: NPR music file? Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2004 09:35:22 +0100 ----- Original Message ----- From: "Rigger" To: "Stagecraft" Sent: Thursday, June 03, 2004 10:28 PM Subject: Re: NPR music file? > For info on subscribing, unsubscribing, and suspending > your list subscription, go to the Stagecraft web site at: > http://stagecraft.theprices.net/ > --------------------------------------------------- > > > At 2:15 PM -0700 6/3/04, Storms, Randy wrote: > > > Does anyone have an .MP3 of NPR's "Cantata for Strand 520i"? > > I lost my copy and it is apparently no longer available on the > > www site. > > > Handled off-list. Y'all knew I'd have it, didn'tcha. > > > (it's a Strand 300, btw) > > -- I'm now bemused - what is this, and as a 300 owner, would I be impressed/intrigued/amused by it??? 8-)) ynot ------------------------------ End of Stagecraft Digest #32 ****************************