TIME AND MONEY!

People are often either disappointed or happily surprised by the result of special effects in a show. For the best results you need to determine clearly what you are trying to accomplish (Imitating nature? look out - nature is really big!) Also,
allowing enough time to experiment on site is important. The results are usually dependent on these few factors:

1. Effects can and should be show stoppers! Therefore, we suggest that they be used sparingly and intentionally. You can usually only surprise an audience once, so pick your time and don’t over use it. Protect the WOW factor and don’t blow the gag!

2. Size counts! If you are trying to cover an entire 30 foot by 40 foot stage, you will probably need more than one device. Budget accordingly. We can advise you on coverage, or arrange for a live demo in our shop prior to your rental. If you are planning shows for next season that rely on special effects, plan for and create a budget for them early!

3. SAFETY FIRST!!! Many effects can severely endanger both audience and performer, not to mention setting off sprinkler systems and ruining the drapes! As a user, designer, or stage manager, you are responsible. We can help you answer the tough questions and keep your audience and actors safe.

We will ask you how and where you are using the effect because we care. Here are some common considerations:

Strobes can trigger seizure disorders in audiences as well as performers. Include a warning of use in your program and post a sign in the lobby.
Fog, although thoroughly tested and endorsed by Actors Equity and others can cause sympathetic coughing and throat clearing, and can also truly aggravate breathing disorders. Visibility on a stage should also be considered and protected.
Fog and Haze machines may set off certain smoke alarms – get prior approval from your building manager to use these machines.

HOW TO GET THE RESULTS YOU WANT:

FOG

Can billow, creep or hang. The type of fog you want will determine which machine and attachments you need. Consider and test stage air movement that will be occurring during the performance. Try the machine at different locations around the stage, and/or several machines from different locations. Smoke Alarms – ask first!!!

HAZE

Used to suspend smoke particulates in the air, so that lighting beams can be seen and add to the overall stage picture. Turn it on early and let it get in place, so that it will be there when you need it. Take the time to experiment when to turn it on and how long to leave it running. Smoke Alarms – ask first!!!

STROBES

Are useful for bright flashes such as lightning or musical rhythmic accents. Test them – where the actual “pool” of light is focused may be surprising (try aiming it at the
scenery). Usually it is best not to see the actual flash, but better to see the reflected flash off curtains or flats.

SNOW

There is no getting around it . . . snow can be expensive and messy! There are two basic approaches – snow confetti falling, or a machine blowing the snow. Consider what the script calls for. Oh, and don’t forget . . . Someone’s got to clean it up: wonderful project for first year students! (Use a shop vac.)

GLOW IN THE DARK - BLACK LIGHTS

The success of using blacklight fixtures is almost directly proportionate to the treatment of the object that you want to “glow”, and using enough fixtures close enough to the target. Ask our scenic specialists what sort of treatment to use for sets, costumes, even skin! We sell paints & other products to treat fabric & scenery to respond to blacklight.