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For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
---------------------------------------------------

Stagecraft Digest, Issue #111

 1. Re: Tools for da road
    by "CrewCall.it" <crewcall [at] tiscali.it>
 2. Re: After Closing
    by Shawn Palmer <shawnp [at] northnet.net>
 3. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Delbert Hall" <halld [at] etsu.edu>
 4. Re: Tools for da road
    by Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
 5. Re: Tools for da road
    by Steve Larson <tiptd [at] theatreinthepark.com>
 6. Re: Tools for da road
    by MissWisc [at] aol.com
 7. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Immel,Patrick" <PIMMEL [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
 8. Re: New Fair Labor Standards act
    by MissWisc [at] aol.com
 9. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Joe Golden" <Joe [at] elslights.com>
10. Re: Subject: New Fair Labor Standards act
    by "Bryan H. Ackler" <backler [at] ix.netcom.com>
11. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>
12. Re: Computer-assisted blocking notation
    by Jeff Grande <JGRA [at] prime-line-products.com>
13. Re: After Closing
    by mconn [at] cumberlandcollege.edu
14. Using an Obsession to control Technobeams
    by "Mason, Richard" <rmason [at] richmond.edu>
15. Re: After Closing
    by "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>
16. Re: Using an Obsession to control Technobeams
    by "Sarah Clausen" <sclausen [at] etcconnect.com>
17. Re: Tools for da road
    by Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
18. Re: After Closing
    by Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
19. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Simon Shuker" <simon [at] ef-ae.com>
20. Re: Model Lighting / Mini Light Lab
    by "Michael Finney" <mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com>
21. Re: Model Lighting / Mini Light Lab
    by "Immel,Patrick" <PIMMEL [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
22. Production Director needed
    by Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
23. Re: Tools for da road
    by MissWisc [at] aol.com
24. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>
25. Re: Tools for da road
    by Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
26. Re: Tools for da road
    by "Michael Finney" <mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com>
27. Re: Tools for da road
    by Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
28. 
    by "Mason, Richard" <rmason [at] richmond.edu>
29. Re: Tools for da road
    by Greg Bierly <gbierly [at] dejazzd.com>
30. Re: Tools for da road
    by Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
31. Re: Blocking
    by June Abernathy <jea00321 [at] yahoo.com>
32. Re: Blocking
    by "Jon Ares" <jonares [at] hevanet.com>
33. Re: Blocking
    by Brad Spachman <bspachman [at] att.net>
34. Resume Format for Perons in Technical Theatre
    by mat goebel <matg [at] comcast.net>

*** 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.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Message-ID: <000701c48902$1508e1a0$0100a8c0 [at] tricia>
From: "CrewCall.it" <crewcall [at] tiscali.it>
References: <list-4222114 [at] prxy.net>
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 12:12:30 +0100

On the subject of  tools for the road.
What was you most disappointing tool you have taken on tour or carted around
and never used. "Disregarding people" as we all could tell a hundred tell's
there.
We all have one :-)


------------------------------

Message-ID: <4129EBBD.30102 [at] northnet.net>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 08:06:05 -0500
From: Shawn Palmer <shawnp [at] northnet.net>
Subject: Re: After Closing
References: <list-4210191 [at] prxy.net> <list-4220020 [at] prxy.net>
In-Reply-To: <list-4220020 [at] prxy.net>


> I was just asked about adding two separate rentals.  One falls on a 
> Sunday that follows our fall play performances of Friday and Sat. nights 
> (then Monday is a band concert) but it is also my anniversary (I know I 
> already harped on this).  I have a full time salaried position and make 
> my own hours to roughly equal 40 hours per week over the year.  I get 
> vacation days but I can take all the time I want as comp time and never 
> have to do the paperwork for a vacation day if I want.  I can also 
> strongly recommend that dates are not available for outside rentals and 
> would only be overridden if an administrator would step in.   It is 
> "possible" to accommodate this rental but I don't want to.
> 
> What other factors should I take into account to make my decision?  I 
> feel like a schmuck to turn them down for personal reasons but until I 
> can come up with a better solution I feel like I am being taken 
> advantage of.

I'd forget it.  Seriously.  I love what I do, and we know you do to. 
But I have missed a LOT in my five years here.  Four out of five 
anniversaries, etc.  As has been pointed out, I did know coming here 
it'd be a lot of hours.  (I was, however, told it'd be about 200 hours 
of overtime, not 900.)

I am only now learing how to balance the rest of life with this position.

I will never get those three anniversaries back, or birthdays, or little 
league games etc....

I wouldn't feel like a schmuck if I were you.  Once in a blue moon you 
need to do something for you and your family.

Shawn P.


------------------------------

From: "Delbert Hall" <halld [at] etsu.edu>
Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 09:11:02 -0400
Organization: ETSU
Message-ID: <000001c48912$a57ce960$6400a8c0 [at] delbert>
In-Reply-To: <list-4222394 [at] prxy.net>

Don't forget you Surefire (or whatever flashlight you prefer) when on
the road.  I like my E2 a lot, and use it all that time.  And don't
forget to bring extra batteries and lamps.

As for multi-tools, everyone will have his or her personal preference.
I prefer the Gerber 600 Pro Scout
(http://www.gerberblades.com/products/view.php?model=7564) over the
Leatherman, because the pliers, the tool that I use most often, are much
easier to deploy. I can do it quickly and easily with only one hand,
whereas it takes two hands to deploy it on my Leatherman.  Having a
knife on the outside, like on the Leatherman Wave, would be nice, but I
always carry a pocket knife and therefore seldom use the knife that is
on my multi-tool.  If you don't carry a pocket knife then the location
of the knife on YOUR multi-tool will be more important than it is for
me.   

Gerber and Leatherman make lots of different models of multi-tools.
Before you buy one, first think about the tools that you will use most
often, how easy they are to deploy on different brands and models, and
how the tolls "lock" into place.  Then go to a big knife store that
carries a good selection of multi-tools, and try them out.  Find the one
that "feels" right for you.

I am sure that I lot of people treat their multi-tools rougher than I
treat mine, but I have never had a single problem with my Gerber.

BTW, has anyone tried out the Recoil? The pliers spring out at the touch
of a button and the tools are all on the outside.  I have not seen it
yet, but it looks interesting

-Delbert


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 09:22:56 -0400
From: Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
Message-id: <4129EFB0.73FEEE33 [at] ithaca.edu>
Organization: IC-Dept. of Theatre Arts
References: <list-4214767 [at] prxy.net>

Warren Stiles wrote:

> ---------------------------------------------------
> 
 > Since we're talking about multi-tools, I've noticed some patterns
> over the past few years concerning multi-tool/screw gun/computer
> preferences.
> 
> Leatherman people like DeWalt and PCs.
> 
> Gerber people like Makita and Macs.
> 
> Schrade people like Porter Cable and PCs.
> 
> Am I imagining this, or has anyone else noticed this pattern

You might be imagining this.  Or I might be the exception.  I like
Gerber, DeWalt and PCs.


-- 
Stephen C. Litterst
Technical Supervisor
Ithaca College
Dept. of Theatre Arts
607/274-3947
slitterst [at] ithaca.edu

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 09:45:23 -0400
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
From: Steve Larson <tiptd [at] theatreinthepark.com>
Message-ID: <BD4F6D33.DAC%tiptd [at] theatreinthepark.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-4223070 [at] prxy.net>

I like Gerber, Makita, DeWalt, Porter Cable and Macs.

Steve

on 8/23/04 9:22 AM, Stephen Litterst at slitterst [at] ithaca.edu wrote:

> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
> 
> Warren Stiles wrote:
> 
>> ---------------------------------------------------
>> 
>> Since we're talking about multi-tools, I've noticed some patterns
>> over the past few years concerning multi-tool/screw gun/computer
>> preferences.
>> 
>> Leatherman people like DeWalt and PCs.
>> 
>> Gerber people like Makita and Macs.
>> 
>> Schrade people like Porter Cable and PCs.
>> 
>> Am I imagining this, or has anyone else noticed this pattern
> 
> You might be imagining this.  Or I might be the exception.  I like
> Gerber, DeWalt and PCs.
> 


------------------------------

From: MissWisc [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <d4.14b32d83.2e5b5757 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 10:21:11 EDT
Subject: Re: Tools for da road

Simple thing... a bandana. 

Can be used to keep your hair off your face and sweat off your brow, as a 
temporary tie to hold things together (not in an overhead, load bearing capacity, 
of course!) as a makeshift belt, to clean off somethng, and as a 
bandage/tournequet - if still clean enough for the task.  (And before one of you jump on 
the fact that tournequets aren't "protocol" for EMT's anymore, I'll give you 
the name of a friend of mine's hubby who's alive and currently recouperating in 
the hospital from a cut leg artery because he was able to make one from a dog 
leash and dial 911 before passing out.)

Very first movie set I was ever on, one of the actors had one. He made  
assorted "costume" pieces and props to keep folks entertained while the lights were 
being set. The ability to make people laugh in times of stress can be a very, 
very good tool.

Kristi

------------------------------

Message-ID: <147CF8DFB9C5D41187300001FA7EE3901E824368 [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
From: "Immel,Patrick" <PIMMEL [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 09:42:11 -0500


>Simple thing... a bandana. 

>as a makeshift belt


Not on me !!! ok, maybe with 7 or 8!



Patrick Immel
Northwest Missouri State University

------------------------------

From: MissWisc [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <d2.14ba0ac9.2e5b6543 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 11:20:35 EDT
Subject: Re: New Fair Labor Standards act
Cc: ostroff [at] operaphilly.com

In a message dated 8/22/4 8:59:17 AM, ostroff [at] operaphilly.com writes:
<< Are all these little summer stock theatres going to have to start paying 
their actors and crews overtime now? >>

Nah... they'll just call them "interns" or "independent contractors" or 
"volunteers with a stipend/honorarium".  

Kristi

------------------------------

Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 08:39:51 -0700
Message-ID: <FCDE18CF571244479E0A078AE596BADC9A77CA [at] els02.elslights.com>
From: "Joe Golden" <Joe [at] elslights.com>


> harborfreight and various discount tables have those=20
> wonderful magnetic parts=20
> "bowls"=20
>=20
> gotta lov' em !=20
>=20
> keith arsenault
> iaeg
> tampa, florida
>=20
But they make lousy Frisbees.

------------------------------

Message-ID: <412A112D.2030907 [at] ix.netcom.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 08:45:49 -0700
From: "Bryan H. Ackler" <backler [at] ix.netcom.com>
Organization: Va. Tech - Vassar - USITT - NTHP
Subject: Re: Subject: New Fair Labor Standards act
References: <list-4222114 [at] prxy.net>
In-Reply-To: <list-4222114 [at] prxy.net>

Actually, those summer stock theatres are don't have to pay overtime if
they derive more than sizable percentage of their annual gross in less
than six months, believe that it is 75% in 50% of the time.  Was 
originally set up for seasonal workers and employers who have to pick 
fruit, but it applies to seasonal theatres.

Bryan H. Ackler
Portland, Oregon

=====================================================================
Subject: New Fair Labor Standards act

Have been reading a bit about the new overtime rules which go into 
effect this week. Doesn't seem like it will have much impact on the 
people I work with. However the thing that caught my eye was that 
employees earning less than $23,600 will no longer be exempt. It occurs 
to me that this could affect some of the smaller, lower paying arts 
organizations that often expect long working hours for low pay. Are all 
these little summer stock theatres going to have to start paying their 
actors and crews overtime now?

It's hard to separate the facts from the political spin that's
coming from all sides on this issue....


------------------------------

Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 12:18:48 -0400
Message-ID: <6E497ADB607656479C24E6D7BF6B505A74AC47 [at] exchange.rmwc.edu>
From: "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>

> Simple thing... a bandana.=20
>=20
> Can be used to keep your hair off your face and sweat off=20
> your brow, as a=20
> temporary tie to hold things together (not in an overhead,=20
> load bearing capacity,=20
> of course!)=20

I wanna see a load-rated bandanna.  Not that I'd have need for one, =
though there was a time...

> (And before one of you jump on=20
> the fact that tournequets aren't "protocol" for EMT's=20
> anymore, I'll give you=20
> the name of a friend of mine's hubby who's alive and=20
> currently recouperating in=20
> the hospital from a cut leg artery because he was able to=20
> make one from a dog=20
> leash and dial 911 before passing out.)

Personally, in a situation like that, I wouldn't really give a rat's =
patootie how clean it was...

------------------------------

Message-ID: <E8B7007098E8D243968EABAC2666D0B606DA51 [at] plpmail1.local.plp.com>
From: Jeff Grande <JGRA [at] prime-line-products.com>
Subject: RE: Computer-assisted blocking notation
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 09:25:13 -0700

Subject: Re: Computer-assisted blocking notation

At this point, I would probably consider looking into a Tablet PC.
Although, I haven't actually used one, the "basic" applications
(like Word) are said to have been modified to allow extensive note
taking and drawing directly on the page.  Perhaps there might be 
some stage template functionality available as well.  

Jeff Grande
Junior University of San Bernardino, Inc.
www.theatergeek.com

------------------------------

Message-ID: <1093278208.412a1a00a1fab [at] mail.cumberlandcollege.edu>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 12:23:28 -0400
From: mconn [at] cumberlandcollege.edu
Subject: Re: After Closing

Hello all.

First, Thanks for the info so far. It has been very helpful.

Just a few "things"

All events that are from the campus community are not paid or rental events.

Hourly Theatre What a concept.  I am Salaried so No OT for me. Comp time is a 
nice thought but seems to conflict with teaching load.

I have scheduling control (Theoretically) So conflicts don't happen, but the 
people who want the space go to the Admin. and I am then vetoed.  (Still 
working on this one)

Thanks again
Moe

Thank You Everyone for Supporting the Long Beach Long Riders efforts to Raise 
money for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. 
Check Out:  www.sapsis-rigging.com/LBLR.html



------------------------------

Message-ID: <0F98C8BA43C00C42AFFBE000DA9DDB23012132E2 [at] pollux.richmond.edu>
From: "Mason, Richard" <rmason [at] richmond.edu>
Subject: Using an Obsession to control Technobeams
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 12:36:40 -0400

Hello list....well I am truly stumped. I can't get the Obsession to set the
right parameters for the Technobeams. Anyone out there had any luck. I need
to get 10 of them working overnight.......6 with iris, 4 without.....so that
means that some take the 18channel protocol and the others take the 14
channel......Is there anyone who can shed some light on the subject?


------------------------------

Subject: RE: After Closing
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 12:37:27 -0400
Message-ID: <6E497ADB607656479C24E6D7BF6B505A74AC49 [at] exchange.rmwc.edu>
From: "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>

> All events that are from the campus community are not paid or=20
> rental events.
>=20
> Hourly Theatre What a concept.  I am Salaried so No OT for=20
> me. Comp time is a=20
> nice thought but seems to conflict with teaching load.

I fought a similar fight once upon a time, and the auditors agreed with =
me to a point.  My scenario was a little different, in that I had no =
teaching load, but supposedly I was ineligible for overtime.

When they started seeing how much comp I was amassing, we worked it out =
so that outside rentals of the space would pay for my time...and if that =
time happened to be (a) apart from normal business hours and (b) above =
my regular 40 for the week, I'd actually see OT on my paycheck.  Might =
be something to check into, especially considering I had multiple other =
hurdles to jump through because mine was a state institution.

> I have scheduling control (Theoretically) So conflicts don't=20
> happen, but the=20
> people who want the space go to the Admin. and I am then=20
> vetoed.  (Still=20
> working on this one)

Take the concerns to a translator who can relate them in a language the =
administration can understand.  IOW, find some hard liability numbers =
and/or talk with the legal department about what might happen if an =
overworked staff had any of a range of accidents, and then show the =
administration the amount of money that they'd have to fork over in =
insurance and settlements if they don't change the way things work.

------------------------------

Subject: RE: Using an Obsession to control Technobeams
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 11:50:45 -0500
Message-ID: <0B70E9798A3B4E4080E46327FA359F2154C0EE [at] MIDL-MAILV.etclink.net>
From: "Sarah Clausen" <sclausen [at] etcconnect.com>
Cc: rmason [at] richmond.edu (Mason, Richard)

Richard wrote:

Hello list....well I am truly stumped. I can't get the Obsession to set
the right parameters for the Technobeams. Anyone out there had any luck.
I need to get 10 of them working overnight.......6 with iris, 4
without.....so that means that some take the 18channel protocol and the
others take the 14 channel......Is there anyone who can shed some light
on the subject?

And I reply:

I don't think you have the right personality files for the fixtures you
are using. The two different configurations of the fixtures require two
different personality files. Contact me off-list and I'll see what I can
do to help. I've cc'd you directly so you should have my email
address....

Sarah

Sarah Clausen
Product Manager
Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.



------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 13:40:28 -0400
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
From: Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-4223414 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <85DC2AA7-F52B-11D8-8D32-0003934521EC [at] hglightingdesign.com>

Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?

Those bugblatter beasts are awfully ravenous you know.


On Monday, Aug 23, 2004, at 10:21 America/New_York, MissWisc [at] aol.com 
wrote:

> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see 
> <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
>
> Simple thing... a bandana.
>
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


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 14:10:01 -0400 (EDT)
From: Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
Subject: Re: After Closing
In-Reply-To: <list-4224307 [at] prxy.net>
Message-ID: <Pine.LNX.4.44.0408231349350.29782-100000 [at] aria.operaphilly.com>

On Mon, 23 Aug 2004, Paul Schreiner wrote:

> My scenario was a little different, in that I had no teaching load, but
> supposedly I was ineligible for overtime.

Most organizations have gone through a review of this during recent years 
and classified all their positions as either exempt or non exempt from 
overtime and comp time. I suspect there might still be wiggle room 
however. And in the end it probably will just come down to an unwritten 
understanding between you and your direct supervisor.

But basically (as I understand it), if you are exempt then it means that
your job consists of performing certain duties and is not related to
hours.  Now I think this cuts both ways however, so if nothing is
happening on a given week you should be able to just stay home. But the
whole issue is bound to get a real workout now, since new labor laws
regarding comp/overtime have just taken effect today.

BTW, the level of interest in this thread is fascinating. I spent 8 years
as a TD at a university and the scheduling issue was always very
contentious. Believe me, "I've been there." But I look at it now from a
different perspective, having spent the last 12 years with a professional
company.

I think it's completely unrealistic to tell the music department they 
can't use the theatre because you're tired from doing another show. Why 
should that be their problem? If you don't want to work then take a few 
vacation days - you can always to that, right? As others have already 
pointed out, the real problem is that your school has not properly 
provided the labor needed to operate the facility. If you are unable to 
fix this, and if unreasonable demands are constantly made on you, then why 
not start applying for jobs at other places with more enlightened 
administrations?

I think this whole situation gives students the wrong idea about 
performing arts facilities in the "real world". They are expensive pieces 
of real estate which cost someone a lot of money to operate every day. 
Every "dark" day is a missed opportunity, so management has the mission to 
utilize them at their fullest capacity. This principle is probably not a 
whole lot different at a school, but with one important distinction: the 
professional facilities generally have a way of providing the needed 
staff, regardless of the often brutal schedules. And this is where the 
unions fit in, to insure that these workers are treated fairly and 
properly compensated.

I understand how in a learning environment students need more time to 
rehearse and do tech work. But it may not be realistic for one department 
to tie up a 600 seat theatre for days or weeks while seven or eight 
students fiddle around with the set and lights. Enjoy this while you can; 
our facility and labor costs are nothing short of astronomical and we have 
to use each  hour as wisely as possible!

Boyd Ostroff                          ooo      Opera Company of Philadelphia
Director of Design & Technology     ooooooo        1420 Locust St, Suite 210
ostroff [at] operaphilly.com             ooooooo           Philadelphia, PA 19102
http://tech.operaphilly.com           ooo                (215) 893-3600 x225


------------------------------

From: "Simon Shuker" <simon [at] ef-ae.com>
Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 22:22:39 +0400
In-Reply-To: <list-4224757 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <20040823182252.B16D659AB [at] mail05.powweb.com>

One item that goes in my sack when I leave for a new venue (particularly in
this part of the world) is a roll of toilet paper! 

Simon.

-----Original Message-----
From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Herrick
Sent: Monday, August 23, 2004 9:40 PM
To: Stagecraft
Subject: Re: Tools for da road

For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
---------------------------------------------------

Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?

Those bugblatter beasts are awfully ravenous you know.


On Monday, Aug 23, 2004, at 10:21 America/New_York, MissWisc [at] aol.com
wrote:

> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see 
> <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
>
> Simple thing... a bandana.
>
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




------------------------------

Subject: Re: Model Lighting / Mini Light Lab
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 11:55:45 -0700
Message-ID: <D970C7F47C09C845806F744DA67B2176308B4B [at] mercury.exchange.local>
From: "Michael Finney" <mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com>

I'm digging through a 2 week backlog of digests, so I'm probably
weighing in late on this - but it sounds like Pat's going to have fun
this year!=20
=20
Personally I've had mixed results with fiber optics for models.  They're
great in instances where you need to minimize the size of the light
source (we build them into display or art director's models), or where
you're going to have issues with heat at the source (again, display
items are especially of concern for this).  The downside is that they
tend to be more expensive on a per-"lamp" basis...good illuminators are
expensive, and you still need to deal with optics of some kind to really
control the light.
=20
If you want to pursue fiber optics, you might want to check out these 2
companies.  I've found them to be the most cost effective in most cases,
and the equipment is first rate:
=20
http://www.svision.com/index.html
=20
or
=20
http://www.fiberstars.com/

There's another company (NoUVIR Research) that several of my friends
recommend (although I haven't used them yet).  They have a "experimental
kit" available that provides a great selection of different fibers and
heads, along with mounting tracks.  I've got one on order.  They also
have a great catalog...

http://www.nouvir.com
=20
On the other hand,  you might want to consider a low profile (or
"miniature") light track in either single or multi-circuit.  That allows
you to mount the track on a "base" model framework to correspond to your
actual lighting positions, and then position the lamp heads as desired.
Most manufacturers make heads with a variety of sources - I'd look at a
mix of MR-11's, MR-16's, and small wash sources.  If you want to get
fancy, look at using Color Kinetics MR-16 lamps (I forget the model
number) in some of the heads...it takes a little care in wiring the
track (you'll need to dedicate one circuit to the color changers) and
you'll need a controller - but then you'd have a color changer or two on
the model as well.  Kind of a cool toy to play with.  Decent sources for
miniature tracks are:
=20
http://www.junolighting.com/default.asp
=20
http://www.primalighting.com/home.htm
=20
http://www.luciferlighting.com/default.htm
=20
Lucifer also makes a nice low-voltage linear system.....
=20
You'll want a collection of color holders for the track heads, along
with some barn doors to control the beam/field.  I'd also suggest some
louvers - those will help hide the source a little, and soften the field
a bit.  The availability of  accessories will likely determine what
track heads you use.  Naturally, you'll want a collection of wattages
and beam angles for your lamps.....and some Black Wrap to help make
little masks and such.
=20
If you want to also use patterns on the models, the obvious choice would
be to add some mini-ERS units.  Time Square, Altman, and a company
called LSI all make good units.  You might also look at this cool little
attachment for MR-16 lamps:
=20
http://www.ideafix.fi/Derksen/pdf/pp37-41_GoboTop.pdf
=20
The cool thing is that you can basically draw a gobo on acetate, put it
in the unit and project the image onto the model right away.  (I also
use them in a lot of display work).  Quite a bit cheaper than a MR16
ERS.  They usually exhibit somewhere at LDI....
=20
Ohhhhh - projects!  Can we get photos when you're done Mr. Immel sir?
=20
Michael Finney

------------------------------

Message-ID: <147CF8DFB9C5D41187300001FA7EE3901E824381 [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
From: "Immel,Patrick" <PIMMEL [at] mail.nwmissouri.edu>
Subject: RE: Model Lighting / Mini Light Lab
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 14:01:49 -0500



> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael Finney [mailto:mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com]
> Sent: Monday, August 23, 2004 1:56 PM
> To: Stagecraft
> Subject: Re: Model Lighting / Mini Light Lab
>
>
> Ohhhhh - projects!  Can we get photos when you're done Mr. Immel sir?
> 
> Michael Finney

Thanks for the great reply Michael.  As soon as my Dean coughs up some money
for this, I'll take as many pictures as you want!!

Thanks again!

Pat Immel
Northwest Missouri State University

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 15:08:24 -0400 (EDT)
From: Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
Subject: Production Director needed
Message-ID: <Pine.LNX.4.44.0408231507080.29782-100000 [at] aria.operaphilly.com>

I don't know anything about the following, but thought it might interest 
someone. If so then contact Des Moines directly...

Boyd Ostroff                          ooo      Opera Company of Philadelphia
Director of Design & Technology     ooooooo        1420 Locust St, Suite 210
ostroff [at] operaphilly.com             ooooooo           Philadelphia, PA 19102
http://tech.operaphilly.com           ooo                (215) 893-3600 x225

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 14:35:09 EDT
From: JeriMace [at] aol.com
To: Operaprod-L [at] culturemail.org
Subject: Production Director needed

Des Moines Metro Opera is looking for a Production Director who is on 
contract for the year with residency in the summer.  The timing of the position could 
work well with an individual whose current situation has some flexibility as 
well as the months of May, June and July open.  Our last PD held a technical 
academic position during the year.  This worked out extremely well.   I could 
see this perhaps also working with someone who is full or 3/4 time with an 
opera company with a fall, spring season.

The responsibilities are typical including but not limited to budgeting and 
overseeing the needs for sets, costumes, lights, props, etc., engaging 
technical personnel for both the summer festival and winter touring company and has 
some involvement with our set rental operation.  

If you know of anyone who might be interested, please have them contact me.

Jeri Mace


Jerilee M. Mace, Executive Director
Des Moines Metro Opera, Inc.


------------------------------

From: MissWisc [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <c.3149ccd4.2e5bb328 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 16:52:56 EDT
Subject: Re:  Re: Tools for da road
Cc: herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com

In a message dated 8/23/4 12:40:15 PM, herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com wrote:
<<Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?>>

Exactly! And knowing that there's more to 42 than 7x6. 

:)

Kristi
http://www.marykay.com/kross-clausen

------------------------------

Subject: RE: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 16:59:20 -0400
Message-ID: <6E497ADB607656479C24E6D7BF6B505A74AC4A [at] exchange.rmwc.edu>
From: "Paul Schreiner" <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>

> <<Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?>>
>=20
> Exactly! And knowing that there's more to 42 than 7x6.=20

There is...IIRC, it's nine times six.

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 17:11:59 -0400
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
From: Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-4226146 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <121D7C2A-F549-11D8-8D43-0003934521EC [at] hglightingdesign.com>

Hey Zaphod!! you're working in base 15 again!!!


On Monday, Aug 23, 2004, at 16:59 America/New_York, Paul Schreiner 
wrote:

> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see 
> <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
>
>> <<Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?>>
>>
>> Exactly! And knowing that there's more to 42 than 7x6.
>
> There is...IIRC, it's nine times six.
>
>
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


------------------------------

Subject: Re: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 15:42:16 -0700
Message-ID: <D970C7F47C09C845806F744DA67B2176308B94 [at] mercury.exchange.local>
From: "Michael Finney" <mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com>

On Sat, 21 Aug 2004 Jason wrote:

<<As TD only tool you need is a laptop and printer, sometimes pencil to
fix a few details. Otherwise your crew and the local crew will do the
rest.>>

Sure...well, sorta....maybe....I guess....

OK, seriously - I can agree with the general concept that you're in the
managerial/supervisory role.  And I've always felt that one of the most
important skills for a TD is the ability to delegate to others and then
actually trust them to do their jobs.

But I still pretty religiously carry the basics with me when I go
on-site - even if I don't use them on the gig, I find myself using them
to do things like fix the AC controller in the hotel room (in Korea).
I'll usually carry a multi-tool (I'm a Gerber guy), good knife (Spyderco
Clip Rescue for me), multi-meter, really good flashlight(s), small LED
flashlight on each of my credential lanyards, multiple measuring
devices, small laser level, really good laser pointer, DMX
tester/controller (a Figment/Sidewinder rig), Palm Pilot with every kind
of conversion software I can cram on it, etc. etc.  It varies based on
what's going on, if I'm flying, how long I'm there, etc.   I've  got a
basic "office package" that goes with me as well (printer, sheet feed
scanner, Ethernet hub and cable, back-up hard drive).  Depending on the
gig, it can all fit easily in a shoulder bag or it can take up several
road cases.

I've done jobs with nothing but a laptop and a printer, but I sure would
have been happier if I'd had that bag of "stuff" with me.....if for
nothing other than my peace of mind!

Michael Finney
Thinkwell Design & Production
mfinney [at] thinkwelldesign.com =20
http://www.thinkwelldesign.com =20


PS - oh, yeah...I'm also one of those geeks who carries his own harness
and hardhat if I think they'll be required....and they usually are in my
world...

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 19:10:15 -0400
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
From: Herrick <herrick [at] hglightingdesign.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-4226802 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <97E58390-F559-11D8-8D43-0003934521EC [at] hglightingdesign.com>

Hey Magyver! you forgot the Duct tape!

On Monday, Aug 23, 2004, at 18:42 America/New_York, Michael Finney 
wrote:
>
> But I still pretty religiously carry the basics with me when I go
>
Snip: Entire Snap-On tools truck and Houston space control listed 
:unsnip

> PS - oh, yeah...I'm also one of those geeks who carries his own harness
> and hardhat if I think they'll be required....and they usually are in 
> my
> world...
>
>
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


------------------------------

Subject: 
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 19:30:58 -0400
Message-ID: <0F98C8BA43C00C42AFFBE000DA9DDB23012132E6 [at] pollux.richmond.edu>
From: "Mason, Richard" <rmason [at] richmond.edu>

QW55b25lIG91dCB0aGVyZSBoYXZlIFRlY2hub2JlYW0gcGVyc29uYWxpdGllcyBmb3IgdXNlIHdp
dGggdGhlIE9ic2Vzc2lvbiBJST8gSSBjYW4ndCBmaW5kIHRoZSByaWdodCBraW5kIG9mIHBlcnNv
bmFsaXR5IHRvIHdvcmsgLi4uLi5BUlJSUkdHR0doaGhoaCENCg0KIA0KDQo=

------------------------------

In-Reply-To: <list-4222991 [at] prxy.net>
References: <list-4222991 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <9D627B48-F571-11D8-90D1-000D936BFA94 [at] dejazzd.com>
From: Greg Bierly <gbierly [at] dejazzd.com>
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 21:02:12 -0500

> BTW, has anyone tried out the Recoil? The pliers spring out at the 
> touch
> of a button and the tools are all on the outside.  I have not seen it
> yet, but it looks interesting
>
> -Delbert

I was playing with one at the store and it kept popping open on me.  I 
was probably doing something wrong but it was awfully annoying.

Greg Bierly
Technical Director
Hempfield HS


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 21:12:48 -0400
From: Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
Subject: Re: Tools for da road
Message-id: <10990e1094c6.1094c610990e [at] ithaca.edu>

----- Original Message -----
From: Paul Schreiner <pschreiner [at] rmwc.edu>
Date: Monday, August 23, 2004 4:59 pm
Subject: Re: Tools for da road

> 
> ----------------------------
> 
> > <<Isn't this similar to knowing where your towel is?>>
> > 
> > Exactly! And knowing that there's more to 42 than 7x6. 
> 
> There is...IIRC, it's nine times six.

In the real world, it's 7x6.

In the world spoilt by the presence of golgafrinchams upset the 
calculations of the global calculator called "the Earth"  (what a dull name) 
it's 9x6.

Steve,
Quite ashamed that I knew the name of the race without looking it up.

Stephen Litterst
Technical Supervisor
Ithaca College, Dept of Theatre Arts
607.274.34947     slitterst [at] ithaca.edu 


------------------------------

Message-ID: <20040824045727.27639.qmail [at] web14126.mail.yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 21:57:27 -0700 (PDT)
From: June Abernathy <jea00321 [at] yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: Blocking

I suppose there may be a way to take blocking notation
on a computer efficiently, but it seems cumbersome to
me. The only way I can think of that would be remotely
workable (to me, of course, this is a case where YMMV
extremely) - is a variation of a manual system that I
discovered years ago, and like alot. Rather than
writing blocking notation in and around the text, or
in the margin of the text, I put a small number in a
circle at the place in the text where something
happens, (starting with 1 at the top of each new
page), and then write a corresponding number on the
blank page opposite, with the blocking. The person who
taught me this used a ruler to underline the blocking
to keep it level with the number on the other page,
and to end up with a neat lined page. I abandoned that
along the way, but, of course, YMMV. 

The notation system I use is pretty much the norm, I
think, with a few personal variations. If your system
is too personalized, then no one else can
read/interpret your book, and I don't think that is
wise. I don't regularly use any symbols you can't find
on a keyboard. I put character (or actor) initials in
caps and usually in a circle, I use an X for "Cross",
standard stage directions like USL and DC and such,
and I use an up arrow for "stands" and a down arrow
for "sits". Pretty basic. Occasional fanciness like a
capital "C" with a capital "X" through it for
"countercross".

One of the keys to the number system, for me, was
copying and punching my script so that the script page
was on the left, and the open page on the right. Made
writing quickly much easier - no reaching across
myself (and the page)to write. Very helpful when you
are also prompting.

(I also used to make up a very simple template of the
basic shape of the stage out of cardboard or - better
- clear plastic, and use that to quickly trace out a
diagram that I could fill in to show everyone's
placement from time to time.)

Also, I leave a large Left hand margin on the script
page for simple shows, and write my cues in there. So,
one book can serve for blocking and calling. 

But, I digress. Back to the computer thing. I would
think the number system could work if you just have a
word document with numbers for blocking, and insert
the numbers into the appropriate place in the script
either manually or on the computer. Or, use columns,
or two documents side by side.

(Another digression - I'm such an olde pharte that I
don't even like taking rehearsal/performance notes on
the computer. I find it easier to print out a blank
one, scribble my notes in appropriate boxes on the
fly, and then, at the end of the day, type it all in
on the computer and print that off for distribution
and archiving.) More computer adept people, or maybe
those who aren't simultaneously taking blocking,
prompting, taking notes, watching time, and leaping up
to help scene shifts and prop mishaps during
rehearsals can probably do it right on the computer
and save a step. I can't.)


June Abernathy
AEA Stage Manager
IATSE #321 (Tampa)
FOH Electrician
Lion King National Tour (Gazelle)


		
__________________________________
Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Mail - 50x more storage than other providers!
http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail

------------------------------

Message-ID: <000301c48999$1a9c0290$0600000a [at] BRUTUS>
From: "Jon Ares" <jonares [at] hevanet.com>
References: <list-4228891 [at] prxy.net>
Subject: Re: Blocking
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 22:13:33 -0700

> (Another digression - I'm such an olde pharte that I
> don't even like taking rehearsal/performance notes on
> the computer. I find it easier to print out a blank
> one, scribble my notes in appropriate boxes on the
> fly, and then, at the end of the day, type it all in
> on the computer and print that off for distribution
> and archiving.)

Please don't feel like an olde pharte....  we have buttloads of laptops 
available at our school, but our cadre of PSMs all do the same thing: 
hand-write on a blank report form, then type it up and distribute.  It's 
really not that much of an issue,  though some busy-bodies may complain this 
form of double-entry is wrong.   :)

Oh, and if any of you SMs out there are left-handed (the best kind, IMHO!) - 
then having the blank page on the left of the 3 rings is already an 
advantage!   :)

    -- Jon Ares
Program Director, West Linn HS Theatre Arts
www.hevanet.com/acreative 


------------------------------

Message-Id: <a06110420bd50837671f4 [at] [192.168.123.194]>
In-Reply-To: <list-4228891 [at] prxy.net>
References: <list-4228891 [at] prxy.net>
Date: Tue, 24 Aug 2004 01:51:04 -0400
From: Brad Spachman <bspachman [at] att.net>
Subject: Re: Blocking

At 9:57 PM -0700 8/23/04, June Abernathy wrote:

[much snippage of good advice about a blocking notation system. Heck, 
it's basically the one I use too...]

>One of the keys to the number system, for me, was copying and 
>punching my script so that the script page was on the left, and the 
>open page on the right. Made writing quickly much easier - no 
>reaching across myself (and the page)to write. Very helpful when you 
>are also prompting.

Yep. Although, being left-handed, I keep the script on the right and 
the blocking slip page on the left. (Just as Jon suggests). When I 
put together my calling script, I reverse it--the script is on the 
left, with a wide left margin for cues. It drives the other SMs nuts 
since I'm the only lefty around :-)

>But, I digress. Back to the computer thing. I would think the number 
>system could work if you just have a word document with numbers for 
>blocking, and insert the numbers into the appropriate place in the 
>script either manually or on the computer. Or, use columns, or two 
>documents side by side.

My InDesign experiment is proceeding well. Everything looks nice and 
it's relatively easy to type in the notes. The blocking index numbers 
are a bit more difficult, but I think creative uses of shortcut keys 
or a macro program can help with that. However, the TabletPC idea is 
really quite interesting. I'll definitely be checking it out.

>(Another digression - I'm such an olde pharte that I don't even like 
>taking rehearsal/performance notes on the computer. I find it easier 
>to print out a blank one, scribble my notes in appropriate boxes on 
>the fly, and then, at the end of the day, type it all in on the 
>computer and print that off for distribution and archiving.)

Well, you still need a notepad even if you can type notes at the 
table during rehearsal. First, it's a little inconvenient to tote 
around a computer while you're looking at things on the stage, or in 
the hallway, or anywhere else an impromptu important conversation 
happens. Secondly, it's always a good thing to be aware of manners. I 
know that there are certain times when it's okay to hear the 
tappity-tappity of a keyboard (say, while rehearsing a production 
number from "42nd Street", but other times it might not be so welcome 
(think any number of death scenes).

>More computer adept people, or maybe those who aren't simultaneously 
>taking blocking, prompting, taking notes, watching time, and leaping 
>up to help scene shifts and prop mishaps during rehearsals can 
>probably do it right on the computer and save a step. I can't.)

Well--isn't that what PAs are for? They're supposed to be young 
enough to do the leaping! :-) I guess I'm striving for 
olde-pharte-hood myself.... (but you won't find me going back to 
typewriters and carbon paper, either...)

Best,
Brad
-- 
Brad Spachman
bspachman [at] att.net
Stage Manager
Goodspeed Musicals

------------------------------

Message-ID: <412AE314.6070609 [at] comcast.net>
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 2004 23:41:24 -0700
From: mat goebel <matg [at] comcast.net>
Cc: THEATRE-SOUND [at] LISTSERV.AOL.COM (theatre sound)
Subject: Resume Format for Perons in Technical Theatre

Since my season is winding down at my current position, Ive started to 
hit the job market and have blown the dust off my resume. Is there a 
particulat format that seems to be accepted for the entertainment industry?

-- 
Mat G.
Entertainment Technical Services
Paramount's Great America
"Remember kids, an *actor* shot Abe Lincoln."


------------------------------

End of Stagecraft Digest #111
*****************************