Cymbeline – Chicago Shakespeare Theater

In Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s production of Cymbeline, two princes cook their dinner in a large cast iron pot over hot coals. The scenic environment didn’t provide the necessary fire pit, so the desired effect had to be portable.

Image 1 shows the base of the hot coal effect. Mounted on the base are four LED clusters, a 12v sealed lead acid battery, and the DMX2dim module.

Image 2 details one LED cluster. Six high intensity red LED’s and three high intensity amber LED’s were used in each cluster on two separate circuits.

Image 3 shows a close up of the 12v sealed led acid battery.

Image 4 details the DMX2dim module (yellow label units are part of the original RC4Magic system, prior to the release of RC4Magic Series 2) connected to the battery and both LED colors.

Image 5 shows the assembled prop, with mesh covers over the LED clusters to make them appear like coals. The battery and DMX2dim module are housed on either side of the cast iron pot inside the larger rocks.

Image 6 shows one side of the finished prop illuminated.

Image 7 shows the reverse side of the prop illuminated.

An RC4 Magic transmitter was mounted on a catwalk directly above the point where the prop was used. The signal remained strong, even with a cast iron pot sitting directly on top of the receiver. Both dimmers in the DMX2dim module were controlled via an ETC Obsession II console. An effect was programmed the make the coals shimmer and dance under the pot.

The effect looked extremely realistic and everyone involved was very happy with it. Having props such as this controlled via the lighting console has opened up many new opportunities for Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Director: Barbara Gaines
Scenic Designer: Michael Philippi
Lighting Designer: Philip Rosenburg
Prop Master: Kate Glodoski
Lighting Supervisor: Ryan Davies