FEATURE | ENTERTAINMENT RIGGING
The entire system is mechanized by 27 Verlinde chain hoists from the Stagemaker range - Keistuoliai Theatre.
“While we all know that you don’t stand
under a live load, if you stand on a stage and look up then there can be a huge array of equipment above your head. This means that often, conventional lifting methods are just not suitable and more innovative solutions have to be found, while still keeping to the same regulations for safety
– I am full of admiration for the riggers that put the equipment together and produce the amazing effects that we see on stage and screen today,” said McCorkell. “As manufacturers, we have seen
the requirements for lifting slings and accessories change over the years. With the progression in tensile strength of steel wire rope, we have seen diameters get smaller while retaining a higher WLL. “The requirements of the industry mean
Verlinde Stagemaker.
always looking for rigging to be as invisible as possible – we all want to see the magic happen without knowing how it happens, so the introduction of black wire rope and some fittings was a step forward in making the rigging less noticeable. “We have a duty of care to ensure that the goods we supply are fit for purpose and conform to the appropriate standards and are constantly checking for any updates to legislation that may apply to the lifting industry. Whether the weight is 2kgs or 20000kgs the same regulations still must be followed. To help us ensure that all the assemblies we manufacture are to the standard, we have both a pull test bed and a drop test bed. Although there is no requirement for us to test (as all our materials are made to the relevant standards), as a company we feel that daily testing of a random assembly can only enhance our quality control - there is no such thing as too thorough.” Lifting comes under many headings in the entertainment industry, and it is
26 | September 2024 |
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commonplace for scenery to be lifted and moved during a live show, so the riggers also have to work with the performers on stage. While traditional lifting can involve days of planning and very precise lift plans, a touring show can mean that the rigging changes in each venue to accommodate stage size, lifting points etc. “The way a show is rigged on Saturday
may need to be completely different in a new venue on Sunday so a tour will typically carry lots of spare equipment to allow for quick solutions as the show must appear the same. It’s important that all our rigging is supplied with the relevant certification and guidance instructions, as this allows the riggers to make any necessary changes to the way a lift is done. This can mean very tight deadlines for us as a manufacturer to be able to get the right equipment to the right venue in time for a show opening. It’s not unknown for the MD to be on the train to London with a delivery to a theatre when things have been needed,” adds McCorkell. She says as the industry has evolved,
products have been developed, such as Soft Steels (AKA Gak Flex or Wire Rope Roundslings) and Truss Straps. The latter can be used in place of a traditional roundsling or wire rope sling when attaching to truss. “These have the advantage of being much smaller in physical size while retaining a WLL that is appropriate for the lightweight items used by this industry. Traditional Burlap is still
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