PORTIMAO, Portugal — The technical staff for the Tempo Theatre knew they wanted an automated rigging system, but didn’t know which manufacturer to choose. To help decide, they opted to visit actual installations in the U.S., to consult with users, and to get hands-on experience. That due dilligence led them to choose PowerLifts automated hoists and an SceneControl 500 control system, both manufactured by JR Clancy, Inc.
Tempo’s staff knew the theatre needed a 33-hoist system, and that the system needed a console that could move several pieces at different speeds and with different targets in a single cue.
The console would need two playbacks, so that two actions could be controlled independently—both of which can be done easily with counterweight rigging. But they reported that many of the consoles they examined could not meet those simple requirements.
After visiting an American theatre and working with the Clancy SceneControl 500, the Tempo staff became convinced that this controller would meet their needs.
Not only would they benefit from the SceneControl’s flexibility and ease of use, they were also impressed with the saftey features and motion control associated with the controller’s PLC software.
The SceneControl 500 console and 33 PowerLift hoists were installed in the Tempo theatre in spring 2009. ADT Fire & Security (a Tyco International company), with over 20 years experience, provided installation and local support.
Charlie Shatzkin, JR Clancy’s international sales manager, hosted the Tempo staff’s visit to the U.S.
“The demonstrations and the time they spent getting hands-on experience with the system really gave the customers a solid feel about us,” Shatzkin said, “as well as our dealer’s ability to install the project correctly and to provide after-sales service. It sealed the deal.”
For more information, please visit www.jrclancy.com.
