Lighting Nataniël’s Mannequin production

Kevin Stannett copy 2

Kevin Stannett

Nataniël’s most recent production, Mannequin, received an overwhelming response at Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg. It ran last year from 18th August to the 25th September where once again a familiar formula ensured outstanding lighting results. The show included the use of Philips Vari-Lite VL4000 Spots, VL2500 Washes and VL2500 Spots – these fixtures were supplied by Gearhouse Splitbeam. The production also made use of the Theatre of Marcellus’ in-house rig.

Kevin Stannett has been the lighting designer for Nataniel for ten years and designed and operated the show. “While Nataniël is a flamboyant, outspoken and much-loved artist within South Africa, he likes to create a minimalistic look in regards to lighting,” said Kevin. “This year he used numerous mannequins on stage as part of the scenery and set.”

For smooth front gobo work and to highlight specific areas of the stage, Kevin used four VL4000s. Another two were rigged above Nataniel for top gobo work. “The output of these fixtures never disappoints,” he said. “The gobos are phenomenal.”

Five VL 2500 Wash fixtures were used for top light on the main vocal positions. “The reason for that is their very small lens giving a tight, contained look,” explained Kevin.

The mannequins were ‘extra cast’ members which we also had to be lit. Kevin used four VL 2500 Spots for side gobo work which brought the mannequins to life.

Programming was on a grandMA2 light. “It’s my faithful programming tool. The video control was also run off the MA via ArKaos.”