Lighting is an essential element of any live performance, event, or show. It sets the mood, highlights the action, and even conveys emotion to the audience. However, to ensure that the lighting works seamlessly during the performance, a pre-show lighting check is essential. This process is a crucial step in preparation, ensuring that everything runs smoothly when the curtain rises.

In this article, we will walk through the comprehensive steps involved in the pre-show lighting check process. By following these procedures, event organizers and technicians can ensure that their lighting system is ready for action. Whether you're setting up for a concert, theater performance, or corporate event, these steps will help you guarantee that your lighting system is fully prepared.

Why the Pre-Show Lighting Check Is Essential

Before discussing the process itself, it's important to understand why a pre-show lighting check is so crucial. Without proper testing, the lighting system can encounter numerous issues, such as faulty fixtures, incorrect settings, or even complete failure during the event. These problems can significantly affect both the performers and the audience.

A thorough lighting check ensures that all fixtures are functioning correctly, the appropriate light settings are applied, and the overall setup supports the event’s visual needs. It provides peace of mind, knowing that when the show begins, the lights will perform as expected and enhance the performance rather than become a distraction.

Steps in the Pre-Show Lighting Check Process

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the essential steps involved in the pre-show lighting check process:

1. Inspection of Lighting Equipment

The first step is a comprehensive inspection of all lighting equipment. This includes:

• Physical Inspection: Check the condition of all lighting fixtures, cables, and mounting hardware. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.

• Power Supply Check: Ensure all power cables and connections are secure. Loose connections or damaged cables can cause interruptions during the show.

• Fixture Placement: Verify that each light is positioned correctly according to the event’s lighting design. This includes ensuring that lights are angled properly and mounted securely.

2. Testing Each Light

After the physical inspection, the next step is to test each light fixture. This involves:

• Turning on Fixtures: Switch on every light and verify that they turn on without issue. Pay close attention to any flickering or irregular behavior.

• Adjusting Intensity: Check the dimming functions and ensure the lights reach their intended intensity levels.

• Color Testing: For fixtures with color-changing capabilities, test all colors to confirm they work as expected.

• Gobo and Special Effects: If applicable, test any gobos, patterns, or special effects that are part of the lighting design.

3. Verifying Control System Functionality

Modern lighting systems are often controlled via sophisticated consoles or software. The control system should be thoroughly checked to ensure proper functionality:

• Console Check: Ensure the lighting console is connected to all fixtures and responds to commands.

• Software Verification: If software is used to control the lights, verify that the program is running correctly and that all necessary presets and cues are loaded.

• Communication Check: Verify that there is proper communication between the control system and each light. For systems that rely on DMX controllers, ensure the DMX signal is properly transmitted.

4. Running Through Lighting Cues

Running through lighting cues is one of the most critical steps in a pre-show check. This involves:

• Cue Testing: Perform a dry run of all lighting cues programmed for the show. This allows technicians to ensure that every transition, color change, and special effect will occur as planned.

• Timing and Synchronization: Check the timing of each cue to ensure it aligns with the performance. Lighting should match the pace of the show, especially for synchronized lighting effects during musical or theatrical performances.

5. Safety Checks

Safety is paramount when working with electrical equipment. The pre-show check should include the following:

• Circuit Overload Check: Verify that the lighting system’s circuits are not overloaded. This can cause overheating or, worse, power failures.

• Safety of Cables: Ensure all cables are safely routed and do not pose a tripping hazard for performers or crew members.

• Backup Systems: Check any backup power systems, such as generators or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), to ensure they are ready to activate if the primary power source fails.

6. Final Review and Walkthrough

Once all checks are complete, a final walkthrough of the venue is necessary. This allows the lighting team to assess the entire setup from the audience’s perspective. It’s essential to check that the lighting achieves the desired effect and that all areas of the stage or performance space are adequately lit.

• Light Focus: Ensure all performers or key areas of the event are appropriately highlighted.

• Environmental Conditions: Consider how the venue’s ambient lighting or natural light may affect the performance. Adjust accordingly.

7. Team Coordination

The final step in the pre-show lighting check process is ensuring proper coordination among the entire team. This includes communication between lighting technicians, stage managers, and other crew members to ensure that everyone is aware of their roles during the event. It’s important that any issues are addressed immediately, and backup plans are in place if something goes wrong during the show.

Conclusion

A thorough pre-show lighting check is critical to the success of any live event. By carefully inspecting equipment, testing all lights, verifying the control system, and ensuring safety, lighting technicians can guarantee that the event’s lighting is seamless and contributes to the overall experience.

The pre-show check process provides peace of mind, ensuring that when the curtain rises, the lights will perform flawlessly, enhancing the event and creating a memorable experience for the audience.

If you want to ensure that your lighting system is ready for the big show, always prioritize these essential checks before the performance begins.