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Strictly Kinesys for Come Dancing
A six-way Kinesys variable speed motor automation system is in action on the current Phil McIntyre ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ tour - the first ’live’ version of the BBC’s mega hit TV series.
The system is being used for the smooth movement of six custom-built chandeliers which fly in low over the dancefloor at the start of the second half of the show during a waltz performed by all the show’s competing dance couples. The chandeliers were designed and built by prop maker David Shakarian, each containing 10 special Teflon coated bulbs. Although not especially heavy, they do require some careful handling, both in transit and once they are flown.
The four-minute waltz sequence also involves the chandeliers engaging in some waltzing of their own - and a key element of this was that the movement had to be as fluid as that of the dancers. “It was the system we all thought offered the best and most seamless operation – and that’s what we needed,” says production manager Andy Gibbs, who contacted Kinesys direct to hire the system.
The motors are six of Kinesys’ Liftket chain hoists, capable of lifting 500kg at speeds up to 24m/min. These work with the Kinesys Elevation 1+ controller and were supplied together with Kinesys’ proprietary Vector control software.
The system has been programmed and is being run by tour rigger Jim Milne-Davidson, who set it up with production rigger Phil Broad.
11th February 2008
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