Protec supplied its client HQ Creative with lighting, video and rigging for the
recently held Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament 2015 Opening Ceremony in June
2015. Protec used the BlackTrax real time motion tracking solution to track extreme
stunt performers, spot lighting them and stage sets.
“We needed the show, to look good for the live audience, as well as on television,’
explained Aaron Russ, lighting designer at Protec.
The opening ceremony used a riot of colour and light to depict the central theme of
urging youth towards core sporting principles of determination, perseverance,
stamina and the will to achieve. This was explained through a narrative and skit
that was inter-woven in a film that depicting the history and culture of the UAE.
Held at the NAS Sports Complex, the high-profile event was attended by His
Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and
Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council. It wowed audiences with extreme sports
stars such as the Yasutoko Brothers and Aaron “Wheelz’ Fotheringham from Nitro
Circus.
In the tight confines of the performance space, Protec used BlackTrax to drive their
Clay Paky lighting fixtures, using unlimited spot positions, to follow multiple stunt
performers in real-time on BMX bikes, skates, trampoline acts and even a back-
flipping wheelchair. “This had to be all achieved without using or having to think
about calling follow spot operators. One of the challenges was to light up the
moving stage scenery including a 3-meter high BMX ramp, which was all achieved
flawlessly with a very limited rehearsal time,’ adds Russ.
BlackTrax is a fully customizable real-time motion tracking solution that has
revolutionized the entertainment industry, by empowering productions with an
unprecedented creativity and cutting-edge technology. Set up is easy and fast using
an advanced automated calibration system.
“By using BlackTrax, no one missed a cue. All stage elements were covered and
thanks to BlackTrax everything was where it needed to be, on time, every time,
without the possibility of human error. The stage was bright and vibrant and we
were given very positive feedback from both the client and the customer,’ says
Russ.
Protec is the first company in the Middle East to acquire the BlackTrax system.
Having taken stock late last year, the company uses BlackTrax to deliver efficient
and creative show solutions, whilst at the same time saving on production costs
whilst exceeding its clients’ expectations. The live entertainment industry is looking
forward to seeing where they take BlackTrax next!
