ASPI Launches Light the Way Campaign to Replace Aged Electronics

Theater lighting enhances the audience experience. It sets the mood of a scene, calls attention to a specific actor or stage piece, and simulates day or night. Lighting is so important – it’s even in our organization’s title. The “Spotlight” in Abrams Spotlight Productions Inc. needs some brightening. Our theater lights at Nancy Byng Community Theater are hanging by a wire! Please help us light up the stage with new digital, LED lighting by contributing to the Light the Way capital campaign.

How much will the theatrical lighting project cost?

Our goal is to raise $30,000.

Why does ASPI need new theater lighting?

The current theater lighting system is Chauvet brand DJ (disc jockey) standard, LED, digital lighting. It was purchased in 2011 as a versatile but limited-capacity system to accomplish color-changing LED lighting technology in an economical system. At the time of installation, LED theatrical lighting was in the early adoption phase, and the technology was being tested and evaluated. Currently, we have nine, round, longer throw fixtures and 13 strip light, short throw fixtures. All of these lights provide a general “wash” of light, and they have limited control of the size and shape of the light area. 

What challenges do the current lights present?

Many of our instruments have had power supply failures, and some have had LED light board failures. Our fixture models are no longer produced, and it’s difficult to find replacement parts. Sometimes, a certain fixture will flash or lose control, and we have to either repair or reboot it to regain control. Unfortunately, this issue has occurred during live shows. Luckily, we have been able to compensate with limited interruption to the performances. However, our aged electronics have finite practical usage.

What difference will new lighting make?

A new replacement LED lighting system will remedy these issues. The new theatrical lighting will provide better reliability and flexibility in lighting design. We will gain more control over the size, shape, focus, and other lighting design parameters. 

What lighting pieces does ASPI plan to purchase?

We plan to incorporate multiple long and short throw lights, as well as specialty fixtures. Additionally, we will choose a user-friendly control system that individuals will enjoy operating.  New lights open new opportunities for our Tech Crew volunteers to learn and become proficient in the design and operation of theatrical lighting.

Who will supply the new theatrical lighting?

ASPI partnered with Northern Sound and Video to install a state-of-the-art sound system in summer 2023, and we will work with Northern Sound and Video for lighting, also. We will choose a complete system that meets our needs for today and 10 years into the future. 

How can I get involved in the Light the Way fundraiser?

We launched our Light the Way Capital Campaign on Dec. 1, coinciding with a social media challenge. We have produced 296 performances since we installed our current lighting system, so we challenged 296 people to donate $10 by opening night of “Oklahoma!” on March 14. Donations of any size are welcome. Abrams Spotlight Productions is a 501(C)3 organization, and donations are tax deductible. Thank you for helping us Light the Way at the Nancy Byng Community Theater.