The VL880 Spot Inspires at the Hong Kong Ballet

As the finale to its 2011-12 season, the Hong Kong Ballet opened Turandot, a neo-classical ballet inspired by Puccini's internationally-renowned opera at the Grand Theatre Hong Kong Cultural Centre.

Giacomo Puccini (1958 - 1924) was an Italian composer who left his final opera Turandot unfinished when he died. Now in the hands of Australian choreographer Natalie Weir, this work of power, lust, and revenge has been transformed into a riveting ballet. Accompanied by Puccini's original music, audiences are now taken on a captivating journey.

Behind the scenes, lighting designer Mak Kwok-Fai utilized more than 40 Philips Vari-Lite automated luminaires for the show in order to enhance the intense emotions behind Puccini's music and Weir's choreography. The rig included the VL3000 Spot, VL3500 Spot, the VLX Wash, and the new VL880 Spot luminaire.

Being the very first designer in the region to use the VL880 Spot, Fai was happy with the result. "You get everything you expect from a Philips Vari-Lite luminaire," said Fai. "You have all the familiar features such as very fast and smooth movement, rich color mixing, crisp and clear patterns, an intense and powerful beam, and smooth fades. The VL880 has given me a totally satisfying experience without any compromises. Plus, the bonus of an additional frost is a particularly good feature when you want to create a gentle touch to highlight anything on stage. The VL880 Spot has definitely inherited the blood from a great family of products, all in a compact body with loads of creative possibilities."

In Review, Constance Rhodes described The Hong Kong Ballet's Turandot as "A spectacular triumph" and "there is no doubt that it will become a magnificent addition to The Hong Kong Ballet's distinguished repertoire." So when asked how the VL880 Spot luminaire might be used in additional productions, or in additional venues, Fai replied, "They are truly an ideal light and there shouldn't be any limitations when designing with this fascinating luminaire."