The Roundhouse Rigs Martin MAC 2000’s Supplied by Stage Electrics

The Roundhouse, Camden, London, is a unique multi-purpose venue. Its use varies as much as the clients visions. This magnificent Grade II listed building, was originally built in 1846 as an engine shed and is recognised as an outstanding example of mid-19th century architecture. In 1964 playwright Arnold Wesker established Centre 42 at the Roundhouse, named after the trade union movement Article 42 stating that arts should be for everyone. This provided the stage for a legendary, cutting edge performing arts venue in which acts like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Peter Brook and The Living Theatre of New York have all performed.

Andres Atkinson, Chief LX at the Roundhouse explained the uniqueness of the venue; being that it is a round open space only complemented by 24 columns; how it gets used for each production, makes for the best challenge. Having to meet very fast turnarounds they decided to have a central Hexagon that generally accommodates all the moving lights which includes several MAC 2000s. For this music season they have slightly modified the rig to accommodate more movers upstage of the stage area.

James Morris said “Stage Electrics has; through providing the lighting equipment and hex truss system; formed an excellent relationship with the Roundhouse and has since been proudly providing on going hire and sales support. Situated in the heart of London, Stage Electrics has been able to react quickly to the Roundhouse requirements giving them, in our view, the level of customer service a venue of this prestige deserves.”

“Specifying the MAC 2000’s was an easy choice for Stage Electrics as not only where they perfect for the venue itself but given our relationship with Martin and the support they show us as a company, we knew this could only have a positive effect on our relationship with the Roundhouse. The MAC 2000’s provide the ‘icing on the cake’ and  provide a system with the flexibility they require.”

James continues, “I look forward to our continued partnership with what is now one the best venues in London”

Andres explained why the MAC 2000 Profiles were chosen, “Having our catwalks at 12 meters, the punch a MAC 2000 holds with its 1200W really helps to define the stage, especially on some of the deeply saturated colour choices. Their colour gobos and glass texture gobos do work beautifully to fill in the space, which is one use our rig is generally destined to do. Their zoom capabilities also make them very good for the uses we generally need to give them. Martin has already proven its success with the MAC 2000 series. Their definition movement and reliability are very good.”

Andres is thankful to Chris Hale at Martin and James Morris of Stage Electrics for their co-operation.