INNOVATIVE LIGHTING FOR A ROCK CLASSIC

It’s been over 40 years since The Rocky Horror Show debuted at the Royal Court Theatre in London, but it’s is still going strong. The show features a cast of crazy characters, fifteen cracking tunes, and some of show business’ most memorable lines: “So come up to the lab. And see what's on the slab/ I see you shiver with antici... pation!”

Millions of theatre-goers worldwide have shrieked with laughter and delight at those words, uttered by the madcap transvestite scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the central character in Richard O’Brien’s era-defining rock musical.

In July last year Cape Town’s Fugard Theatre, and producer Eric Abraham, opened their production of the show. Its success has been as riotous as some of Frank-N-Furter’s dance moves. After playing to sold-out houses for 27 weeks in a row, the production moved to Pieter Toerien's Montecasino Theatre in Joburg, where it has SOLD OUT its entire season, which ends 30 March. It has just been announced that, due to overwhelming public demand, the production will return to Joburg for a further 12 week run starting 14 November 2014. So if you missed it, here is your chance to grab your tickets…but you better move fast!

In an artful melding of new technology with classic show business this production of The Rocky Horror Show makes innovative use of lighting and screen projection. As the Fugard Theatre’s preferred supplier, Electrosonic SA had a hand in the lighting and SFX aspects of the show. This included designing a mobile wireless Versalight LED installation. Electrosonic SA also supplied Compulite Vector Series Lighting Consoles, Jem Haze Machines, Jem Glaciator X-Streams, Martin MAC Auras, Martin MAC 401s and Martin MAC 700 Profiles.

Electrosonic SA’s association with the Fugard Theatre dates back to the construction phase of the theatre when Electrosonic SA installed the lighting infrastructure, including dimming, control, and generic and intelligent lighting.

Robbi Nassi (Electrosonic SA: Technical Sales and Support: Lighting Division) notes the good working relationship and strong friendships that have been built up over the years with this successful theatre company. “We’d like to thank the Fugard Theatre, and Executive Director Daniel Galloway, for their loyalty and continued support. We value the opportunity to be part of their vision to create and host world-class theatre.” According to Daniel, the feeling is mutual: “Working with Robbi and the chaps from Electrosonic SA is a dream. In a demanding industry, which requires fulltime passion and commitment in reaching for perfection, we continue to find our perfect match in the Electrosonic SA team. Their integrity and tireless work ethic is refreshing and rewarding.”