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Technical Equipment
by
Wayne Lee
Before buying your
technical equipment, know what type of show you want to perform, where, and
how often. For example, if you want to perform a giant illusion show, you
will have to purchase giant illusions, a trailer and vehicle to transport
them and your staff.
Be clear on the scale of
the show you are performing. This will answer what you need. To keep it
simple, start small and get the essentials. My PA system is comprised of
four JBL powered speakers, two tree stands with four lights on each stand.
I use a headset microphone, as well as a hand held cordless microphone.
This works for me, but I am not you. You will have to decide what you like
to work with.
Technical equipment that
should be considered for your show includes the following:
·
Microphones
·
Speakers (monitors for hypnosis show)
·
Amplifier (if not using powered speakers)
·
CD / minidisk player
·
Mixer
·
Lights (two tree stands, four lights / stand)
·
Dimmer packs (light jockey software works well if
working with intelligent lighting or complicated lighting sequences)
I would suggest that no
matter where you are in your career, you should model the entertainers who
are successful. Not all of their equipment will be what you need, decide
what works best for you. If you keep it simple, you can always add
equipment. Make sure that you can build on to your basic system. As time
goes on you can add more bells and whistles, such as smoke machines,
intelligent lighting, and sound effects. Keep in mind many of your clients
may supply production and it is easier on everyone to haul around less
gear.
If you are in a situation
where you do not want to do many large shows, then it is a good idea to rent
production. If you are not booked to do a lot of shows, but it is your goal
to be a full-time performer, then it may be best if you invest in a sound
and lighting system. I am a firm believer that you should bring your own
production to most shows even if your client supplies production. You can
never be sure, unless you have previously performed there, about the type of
equipment available and how well it works. One thing you do know is the
type of equipment you have and how well it works. The only time I do not
bring all of my equipment is when I fly into a location. In those
situations, I bring my Numark Double CD Player, mixer, and a cordless
microphone. I also make it very clear to the client what they need to
supply for production for the show to be a great success. The most
important thing to do is to meet your client’s needs – irregardless of
whether your production is large or small, or whether you rent or own.
In my experience, the
audience needs to hear your voice clearly and the stage must be lit so they
can see the show. Unless you are playing in a permanent showroom with great
effects and props, keep it basic and simple and supply quality sound and
lighting. I believe if you are confident in your show, it will speak for
itself.
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