How do you plan and execute a safe and efficient lighting rigging process?

1 Assess the venue

Before you start designing your lighting, you need to inspect the venue and its existing lighting system. You should check the type, size, and capacity of the stage, the available power sources and circuits, the rigging points and hardware, the lighting fixtures and accessories, and the control and dimming systems. You should also identify any potential hazards or limitations, such as low ceilings, uneven floors, fire exits, or noise restrictions. Based on your assessment, you can determine what additional equipment or modifications you need to rent or install.

2 Design the plot

Once you have a clear idea of the venue's features and constraints, you can start designing your lighting plot. This is a graphical representation of your lighting design, showing the location, type, color, and intensity of each lighting fixture, as well as the wiring, cabling, and circuiting details. You can use software tools or paper templates to create your plot, but make sure it is accurate, clear, and consistent. You should also consult with the director, the scenic designer, and the sound designer to ensure that your plot supports the artistic vision and the technical requirements of the show.

3 Prepare the equipment

After you have finalized your plot, you need to prepare the equipment that you will use for your rigging. You should inspect and test each lighting fixture, cable, connector, dimmer, and control device for any damage or malfunction. You should also label and organize your equipment according to your plot, and pack it securely for transportation. You should also prepare the necessary tools and safety gear for your rigging crew, such as ladders, harnesses, gloves, and helmets.

4 Install the rig

The installation of the rig is the most critical and challenging part of the rigging process. You should follow the best practices and safety standards for working at heights, lifting heavy objects, and handling electrical devices. You should also work as a team, communicating clearly and following the instructions of the lighting designer and the master electrician. You should start by hanging and focusing the lighting fixtures according to your plot, securing them with clamps, safety cables, and gels. Then, you should connect the fixtures to the power sources and circuits, using cables, connectors, and distribution boxes. Finally, you should patch the fixtures to the control and dimming systems, using a patch panel or a software program.

5 Test and adjust the rig

After you have installed the rig, you need to test and adjust it to ensure that it works properly and meets your expectations. You should run a dimmer check to verify that each fixture responds to the control system and produces the desired intensity and color. You should also run a focus check to verify that each fixture is aimed at the correct area and creates the desired effect. You should also run a cue check to verify that each lighting cue is programmed and timed correctly and matches the script and the director's vision. You should make any necessary changes or corrections to your rig, plot, or cues during this stage.

6 Maintain and strike the rig

During the run of the show, you need to maintain your rig to keep it in good condition and prevent any problems or accidents. You should inspect and clean your equipment regularly, replacing any faulty or worn-out parts. You should also monitor and control your rig during each performance, following the cues and adjusting the levels as needed. You should also troubleshoot and fix any issues that may arise, such as blown fuses, loose connections, or broken lamps. After the final performance, you need to strike your rig, which means dismantling and removing your equipment from the venue. You should follow the same safety and efficiency principles as in the installation stage, working as a team and respecting the venue's rules and regulations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?