18 November 2011
Rebecca Heartfield, RM Photography
M-Net, launched as South Africa’s first pay TV channel, celebrated 25 years of magic at the M-Net Studios in Randburg during October, utilizing a grandmA and 49 Robe fixtures. 
TechRig supplied the full technical and Robert Grobler, from the aforementioned company, was appointed lighting designer of the show which was staged in a multi venue structure on the M-Net grounds. The creative brief was received just over two months ago, and Robert was given free reign in terms of design. He approached the design from a theatrical perspective, the greatest challenge being the weight restriction of the marquee tent. “We did drawings, I had various meetings with the manufacture engineers, and the final outcome was to ensure the overhead stage did not exceed 4 tons,” said Robert.
Rebecca Heartfield, RM Photography
The event, which included the video clips of earlier days, dancers and performers, was held over four days. On the first day, three shows were hosted for the M-Net staff. This was followed by three back to back Gala dinners attended by high profile guests. 
Rebecca Heartfield, RM Photography
24 x Robe CitySkape 48s were used as set lighting, their small size not taking anything away from the set was a major plus. A further 19 Robe 700 Spots were scattered overhead for beam work and top light and 6 x Robe 700 Beams were used as search lights outside. The gig also comprised Martin gear on the side. An additional 160 Bright Q Power Bank LEDs, 16 Philips Selecon Specifics and 26 Blonds gave Robert sufficient gear to create something spectacular both for live and a television audience. “I also used the MDG low fog machine,” added Robert. “It was awesome.”
The show incorporated 18 songs and Robert made sure that each act looked completely unique. He utilized a grandMA and tried to fit in three days of programming, besides helping with the hanging, tweaking, set-up, tweaking, plug in, tweaking . “But I still prefer to focus my own lights,” said Robert. “And I love working on the grandMA. It’s the best desk ever.” 
Rebecca Heartfield, RM Photography
Rebecca Heartfield, RM Photography (above and below) – Many thanks for the beautiful photos.
