MMxs for Noot vir Noot

24 November 2011

  Continually reinventing themselves, it has been remarkable to see the musical quiz South African television show, Noot vir Noot (“Note for Note”), as popular as ever twenty years down the line. Blond Productions were approached four years ago to give the show an edge by adding a modern technical twist, and this season they could not wait to include their brand new 12 Robe MMX fixtures to the production. The show is programmed on a grandMA ultra-light and incorporates a further 12 Robe 250s.  

Blond were originally called in by Stemmburg Television to give the show a “wow” factor. Noot vir Noot is  produced and run by its original team, camera men included, and for Blond it has been wonderful working with experienced “old school” masters, like Alasdair Richards, who does the generic lighting. In many aspects one considers the bond like that of a family, but Noot vir Noot must be one of the best oiled machines run by a group of professionals.

Alasdair Richards and Christian Ballot   “Every second season (comprising 24 episodes shot over a two week period), we’ve tried to give them something new,” said Christian Ballot of Blond Productions.  

Ryan Lombard from Blond was assigned LD for the show – he has been part of the show for the past three years, and all programming was done on a grandMA ulta-light.

12 Bright Q panels have been incorporated to light up the set and ten plasmas screens add visuals. Two Robert Juliet Follow Spots are utilized. For beam work, six Robe 250s are placed on deck close to the band, “Die Musiekfabriek” (The Music Factory), for movement and beam work. An additional two Robe 250s are positioned on either side of the entrance, where presenter Johan Stemmet walks onto the stage. A further six 250s are set behind the contestants, creating patterns and colour to the background.  Eight MMX fixtures hang on bars above the stage to create extra beam work. “I enjoyed the MMXs,” commented Ryan Lombart. “They’re pretty mighty lights and I was impressed.” Another four MMXs were positioned in front of the band to once again create effects on the set.

  Every episode includes a five song medley, performed by guest artists. “That’s where I get creative,” smiled Ryan. “”Every day I get to plot a new look for the song, and every now and then it’s a fast track where I really can play. “

As the live audience is very small, Ryan lights for the camera to ensure the best possible picture for viewers at home.

“Noot vir Noot is owned by the people of South Africa, “ended Christian Ballot. “Everyone knows the show and for us it has been a privilege and honour to be part of something, that has grown to be part of our country’s culture.”