Photos courtesy of Robert Hollingworth.
USA - Despite the dizzying success and exploding fan base of Arcade Fire over the last year, their current Neon Bible Tour has the remarkable feel of a very intimate show, say observers. Lighting designer Paul Normandale put together a stage design that kept things slightly less assuming, but just as bold and entertaining as the band's theatrical performances. Using a mix of Martin moving lights, LEDs and some projection, the show achieves a powerful, energetic feel that is at the same time close and informal.

"There is a real emphasis on the band's performance," says Normandale. "It is definitely not an R&R show." Having specified MAC 700 Profiles on several recent projects, he chose them again as the main spot for his lighting design, while the MAC 250 Wash served as the foundation of dynamic colour on the band and background.

He continues, "We needed a smaller system that was adaptable for a diverse range of venues and festival situations. The MAC 700 is a perfect compliment to the MAC 250 Wash in terms of the level of output and their compact size. Especially in space conscious situations - like when there are ten band members on stage."

Andy Scott from Lite Alternative who supplied the gear agrees. "The MAC 700 profile and MAC 250 Wash units are great for these kinds of theatrical shows; they have a big light output but won't take up too much room on the truck. As usual Martin's products are very reliable. The MAC 250 Wash is still one of the best smaller moving light fixtures with a great output."

The Neon Bible Tour will complete its current US leg before returning to Europe for the festival season.

(Jim Evans)


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