Hong Kong - 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.
When Puccini passed away, his final opera Turandot was left unfinished, but now in the hands of Australian choreographer Natalie Weir, this work has been transformed into a dramatically alluring and riveting ballet. Accompanied by Puccini's original music, audiences are now taken on a captivating journey of intrigue and spectacle.
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 and sensations behind Puccini's music and Weir's passionate choreography. The luminaire rig included the VL3000 Spot, VL3500 Spot, the award-winning VLX Wash and the new VL880 Spot luminaire.
Being the 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 moment, rich colour 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."
