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    LD Profile: Xavier Pierce

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    Six questions with Xavier Pierce
    Lighting designer and owner of Xavier Pierce Design in New York.

    1. How did you get into this field?
    I was a dancer for about eight years, since I was 7 years old with Florene Litthcut Nichols Inner City Children’s Touring Dance Company in Miami. She had a son who was 10 years older than I was, who started apprenticing with the Miami IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees) Local 477, while he was practicing dancing. He took me around on local lighting jobs to hang and focus lights. That was my first encounter, so to speak. During my first year of high school I had a really hard time adjusting and one of the teachers threatened to kick me out of an artistic program. A senior student who did lighting and technical theatre was leaving and nobody knew how to run the console or the lighting. So I told myself, if I learned the console and learned how to set up lighting, it would be hard for her to kick me out. I remember doing my first design; it was in a black box theatre. The florescent lights went out and I slowly brought up the R26 backlight – the look, the moment, the feeling was perfect. It was so intense that the hairs stood up on my skin. Here I was communicating an emotion only with my heart and a push of a handle. From that point on I never looked back.

    2. What do you think is the next big thing in the lighting industry?
    On the tech side, I think bigger, brighter LEDs across a wider range of standard fixtures. I can see an LED ellipsoidal. On the design side, I think there is going to be a wave of talented lighting designers (some are out there already) who are also experienced in video design, and who can put out a great product in the time it would take one lighting designer and one video designer to do it.

    3. What is your favorite fixture?
    If you asked me six months ago, I would have said the VL3000 Spot from Vari-Lite. It’s bright, it’s durable and moves very well. My favorite now is the VL2500 Spot. It has a great punch, size and cost. I had to change 18 VL3000 Spot lights to VL2500 fixtures and I was really concerned, because the show had been on tour for two years. But I had little reprogramming to do and in the end I was amazed.

    4. What has been your favorite design/project?
    I have two favorite projects. The first one is Drumline LIVE!, an international and national tour celebrating the rich history and style of Historically Black Colleges and Universities Marching Band (HBCU). I obtained my undergraduate degree from Florida A&M University, part of HBCU. This show just brings back so many colorful memories of good music and outlandish theatricality. Putting 40 marching band members from across the country on one stage is thrilling and electrifying. The second project is the grand opening of the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center. The creative team came up with a show that reflected the cultural diversity of South Miami-Dade. We used the theme of Hurricane Andrew that ravaged South-Miami Dade as an emotional backdrop to the show. The team was on the phone for hours, for two and a half months cultivating what the show was going to look and feel like. We were always searching for the truth of human suffering, asking ourselves, “How can someone rebuild from nothing?” It was terribly emotional. I was a teenager living in Miami when Hurricane Andrew hit. It was an amazing experience working with talented artists and I was incredibly blessed to be a part of it.

    5. What was the biggest unforeseen obstacle that you’ve faced in one of your designs, and how did you overcome it?
    While I was working on the grand opening of the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center, we had challenges coming up with the design concept. You could not tell where video started and where lighting ended. It was difficult trying to create a seamless fluid visual picture, with two minds. The solution was to work together with the video designer and to discuss during tech. The video designer put up an image and I layered in the lighting, making sure he agrees. We wanted to integrate both elements to see the difference between the lighting and the video. Video adds so much more to the composition, it’s like Chef Emeril Lagasse‘s famous tag line, “Let’s kick it up a notch.”

    6. Complete this thought: A show without light is like…the world without the Sun: dead, desolate, cold, unbearable; without growth and understanding.

    Tech Talk: Learn How to Properly Pack for the Road

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    Written by Mike Graham, product manager for CHAUVET Professional

    Mike Graham looking pensive in front of MVP panels.

    You just picked up a rental package of lights from CHAUVET. But do you know how to get them out for rental, and more importantly, back again in one piece? Can you just keep them in the box and hope for the best? How about cables? How do you keep track of cables, how do you wrap and pack them?

    As part of being organized, I always keep a list of what is in each box. I always know how many 10-feet 5-pin DMX cables I have and I pack a few in plus, just in case. Also, I pack some extra power cables, a few plugs and 3- to 5-pin turn arounds? I like to make note of anything that did not work on the show site so that when I get back to the shop, I can easily find it and get it fixed. These are just some quick tips; read below and get organized like a pro:

    1. Packing products. Let’s use the COLORado series of products for our examples. While they are completely road worthy, they still need a little protection from the rigors of road travel and from riggers. These fixtures are – with the exception of the COLORado Ridge IP and COLORado Range IP – fairly small in size, so you can pack multiples in one case. If you have PAR-style units, a case of six or eight is the way to go. With the batten-style units, you may be able to do many more depending on the style of case. Casing the units keeps them safe and helps you keep track of your inventory. This applies to moving heads as well. The lighter and smaller the fixtures, the easier it gets to pack more into the same case. The Legend 412 is a great example for this – it can be cased easily into an eight-pack.

    2. All about cables. Nothing is worse than getting to a show and seeing that the cable trunk looks similar to a steaming hot colander of cooked spaghetti. Keeping them organized is not as hard as you think. CHAUVET DMX cables come with color-coded shrink tube on both ends of the cables for easy sizing. Check the picture at right for CHAUVET’s color coding.

    • Handling new cables. When you buy a new set of cables, it is really important to take them out of the package, roll the cables out and get the wind memory out of them. When DMX cables are built at the factory, typically they are rolled off a big spool, have the ends soldered on, and then get wound back up on the packaging card. That is why when you buy new cables they unroll like a big spring. To release the memory, I grab the head of the cable in my left hand and pull it through my right hand tight enough to let the cable pass, but at the same time spin out the twists in the cable. Once you are done, the cable should lay flat on the floor. This will let you roll the cable back up and not have it look like a figure 8.
    •     Tying up cables.
      Zip Tie. This works very quickly, but they burn up fast and that can get expensive. Also if you don’t have a set of cutters handy, getting the Zip Tie off is going to be a challenge for your teeth.
      Electrical or Gaffers tape.       This is quick again, but you might end up with tape on your shoes, and I personally hate tape on my shoes.
      Trick line or Velcro tie.       This can be attached to the cable permanently and allows you to use the tie again for cleaning cable on the truss
      Fold over and tie the cable back on itself.       Cheep and dirty way to have your cables not last too long. Tying a not in the cable is not a good plan.
    • How to roll cables. So pick a method and roll up the cable. I am really picky about how people roll cable, and this is my advice: never roll over your elbow. It creates memory in the cable and will eventually break the stands of copper in the cables. Since I am right handed I grab the head of the cable in my left hand and make loops that are about 1 foot across. There are two schools of thought on wrapping cable: over-under or all-over. Over-under means that you alternate the loops so that one loop is over the top, and the next loop is wrapped underneath. All-over means that you are wrapping the cable all over each other. Both methods are acceptable. However, if you unwrap the over under method the wrong way, you will see that every loop is now a knot in the cable.
    • Stacking cables. Once you have all of your cables wrapped up and color coded, you can start stacking them up in the case. One case for data, one for power extensions, one for motors, and one for power distribution. You want to keep these all separate as they are typically used at different times of the load in. You also want to make sure that you pack in order. For example, make sure that your feeder cable for your power distribution system is on top the rest of your power distribution cables. You are going to need them first and there is nothing worse than having to dig to the bottom of a case full of heavy cable only to have to put it back in once you have your feeder cables.

    So now you have your cases packed and you’re ready for your show. (For a list of tools, click here and follow the advice I gave in a different blog.) You know how to be in charge of your equipment and how to stay organized.  There’s one thing left to do: enjoy what you do and have fun!

    LD Interview: Take 5 with Richard Cadena

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    We were pleased to have Richard Cadena at CHAUVET HQ for a three-day seminar from his APT class series. While here, Cadena sat down for talk with our own Ford Sellers, senior product development manager for CHAUVET. Here is part one of three:

    COLORado plays big role during NFOH launch

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    On November 19, CHAUVET attended a swanky party to celebrate the launch of New Faces of Hollywood (NFOH) — Fort Lauderdale’s first TV and motion picture studio complex. Local, national and international celebrities attended the red-carpet event which took place in an industrial-style warehouse illuminated with more than 50 CHAUVET fixtures (see below for a detailed list). 

    8 x COLORado 1 VW Tour
    6 x COLORado 1 Tri IP 
    5 x COLORado 2 IP 
    5 x COLORado 2 Tour 
    5 x COLORado 3 IP 
    4 x COLORado Batten 72 Tour 
    1 x COLORado Batten 144 Tour
    1 x Q-Spot 260-LED 
    1 x Q-Spot 260-LED 
    1 x Q-Wash 260-LED 
    8 COLORado Panel
    6 COLORado 1 VW

    Richard Cadena talks electrical safety at CHAUVET HQ

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    Academy of Production Technology: Electricity Safety 101

    When it comes to safety, you really can’t be too careful. But you can try. And it’s typically recommended because, simply put, electrical current can kill. Did you know as little as 10mA (or .01 amp) can stop a heart? Protect yourself by wearing hard hats, rubber soled shoes and insulated gloves. Do not wear polyester. (Which should go without saying!)

    Watch what could happen:

    George Ohm had the answer, which is known as Ohm’s Law. Check out these videos for more explanation:

    Richard Cadena talks high voltage at CHAUVET HQ

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    Academy of Production Technology: Day one. What is electricity?

    The scope of the first day was about entertainment electricity and electrical theory. For example, how to measure current, voltage, wattage, calculate phase angles, Ohm’s law and AC and DC power.

    There were quite a few ‘did you know?’ moments as well. Did you know you should look for a fixture with a power factor of one? Did you know that Thomas Edison made his own filament by baking bamboo until it was black? Did you know air is a good insulator? Did you know New York City’s Broadway earned the nickname “The Great White Way” because it was among the first electrically lighted streets in the United States. Did you know the band AC/DCgot it’s name from alternating current/direct current seen on a household appliance?

    Mike Graham and Ford Sellers (L to R)

    Naturally, this is only a fraction of what was discussed and does not begin to outline the detail and structure of this class. Nor does it remark upon how Cadena’s teaching style is equal parts thorough and easy-to-understand. Hopefully, it suggests that learning about electricity can be fun and that anyone will benefit from taking this class. Those new to the industry or more seasoned members like our own Ford Sellers, senior product development manager, and Mike Graham, product development manager for the professional line. Anyone.

    For more information about Academy of Production Technology three-day seminars, checkout their website for upcoming classes.

    Must see video show in class:

     

    LD Profile: Eduardo “Wady” Rodriguez

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    Five Questions with Eduardo “Wady” Rodriguez

    Wady is a lighting designer with more than 20 years experience in the industry and is well-known throughout Latin America, particularly in his home country of Argentina. Throughout his career, he has worked with Ricky Martin, Shakira, Calle 13, Juan Luis Guerra and more.

    1. How did you get into this field?
    I started my career in the ‘90s while working with a band named Soda Stereo, in Argentina. We used to tour throughout Latin America and the United States. Ever since then I have loved my profession because it gives me the opportunity to express myself through lighting.

    2. What is your favorite CHAUVET fixture?
    I like the Q-Wash 560-Z LED because I find it very original and practical. Also, the Legend 412 caught my attention. I think with a certain number of Legend 412 fixtures, you can create very interesting effects.

    3. What were some of the projects you were involved in?
    I have traveled and worked directly with Ricky Martin as set designer for his promotional tour. Overall, I have worked on his concerts for 16 years. Preparing for this tour was an extensive project. It took us two months of production and one month for the setup and programming. I had the opportunity to travel to more than 50 countries and gained so much experience while doing the thing I love most. In 1997 I worked on a different project for a Shakira concert. I currently work with Calle 13, a band from Puerto Rico known for its eclectic style and use of nonconventional instruments. I have also collaborated with Juan Luis Guerra from the Dominican Republic, and created the lighting design for his concert.

    4. What has been your favorite design/project?
    I really enjoyed working with Ednita Nazario, from Puerto Rico, during her “Soy” show, in May 2010. The great thing about this project was that I addressed each element of the show separately, but also looked at the overall picture, looking for harmony. The combination of music and lights reflected Ednita’s personality – her fragility, passion and great talent.

    5. Complete this thought:
    A show without lights is like… an iPod without headphones.

    The Ghost Light

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    We visited The Lyric Theater recently and while checking out their collection of CHAUVET gear used in the theater and the neighboring Flagler Center, we grabbed a shot of their ghost light. The one above is in the foreground with COLORdash Batten Tri linear wash lights on the cyc while some LED PAR 38 Tri wash lights are used as front light for the stage its sitting upon.

    Have a shot of a ghost light to share? We’d love to see it.

    COLORado Colors Christian Concert in Puerto Rico

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    Ten COLORado Batten 72 Tour linear wash lights traveled to Puerto Rico to animate a Christian concert at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot. Five LED wash lights were installed symmetrically on each side of a video screen and used as sidelights.

    The lights were specified and temporarily installed for the event by Musique Xpress. The concert was sponsored by Carlos Baerga, former Major League Baseball player who was born in Puerto Rico.

    CHAUVET Brings the Lights at Algam Party

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    CHAUVET joined a one-of-a-kind party thrown by Algam, distributor of musical instruments, audio and lighting equipment throughout France. Algam exclusively distributes CHAUVET DJ and Professional products. Organized every two years, the party aims to bring together Algam’s main suppliers. CHAUVET lights filled the hotel where the event took place, and lit a theater, showroom, bar lounge temporarily turned into a concert room, ballroom and garden.
    Algam CEO Gérard Garnier, director Jean-Luc Dubois and Algam employees entertained their guests with a play, introducing the general theme of pirates to the gathering. Garnier recognized CHAUVET CEO Albert Chauvet on stage for his efforts and innovations brought to the lighting industry. The performance was lit by 12 Q-Wash 260-LED moving heads , six COLORado 1-Tri Tour static wash lights and one Intimidator Spot LED 150 moving yoke spot. Ten COLORado Batten 72 Tour linear wash lights framed the audience on each side of the stage.
    About 30 CHAUVET fixtures were installed behind audio equipment in a showroom shared with HK Audio, including the Gobo Zoom LED gobo projector, Cosmos LED, Radius, Circus, and Hemisphere 5 effect lights, Intimidator Scan LED 200 and Intimidator Scan LED 300 scanners and 4PLAY CL wash light. Other lights on display were the 4BAR and 6SPOT wash lights and LFS-5 framing spot.
    The bar lounge was turned into a concert room by installing nine SlimPAR Pro Tri and six COLORado Batten 72 Tour wash lights.
    For a dancing soiree a variety of fixtures animated the ballroom: one Radius, one Circus, three Abyss LED 2.0,  and two Eclipse effect lights, as well as one Intimidator Scan LED 300 scanner and six Gobo Zoom LED gobo projectors. Furthermore, 12 COLORdash Batten Tri linear wash lights, 10 COLORtube 3.0 EQ fixtures—a  linear chase, static color effect and a real-time music visualizer in one light, MotionFaçade LED front board for DJ booths and six WELL wireless wash fixtures. An Arena Hazer 3 haze machine set the atmosphere for dancing.
    Additionally for exterior decoration, WELL wireless event wash lights uplit the trees in the garden.