La Perle by Dragone

Lasers Transform La Perle by Dragone in Dubai

Overview

La Perle by Dragone, located in Dubai, is a landmark theatrical production featuring a unique water stage and breathtaking performances. Tasked with enhancing the show’s visual experience, Franco Dragone, the creative force behind the production, envisioned integrating innovative laser systems to elevate the storytelling and immerse the audience like never before. To meet these ambitious goals, Laser Saga and KVANT Lasers worked as partners to deliver cutting-edge laser solutions, bringing creativity and technical expertise to one of the most demanding show environments.

Challenge

La Perle required a visually dynamic element capable of enhancing its already state-of-the-art performance. The goal was to add an immersive layer to the storytelling without overwhelming the acts or interfering with safety requirements in the unique aqua theatre setup.

The production's "Suspended Poles" act, set in a domed venue featuring projection mapping, was identified as a prime opportunity for laser integration. The lasers needed to complement the projections without creating visual conflict. Additionally, the lasers would be used not only for atmospheric effects but also as a vital storytelling tool that interacted with performers, particularly the show's clown act.

Key challenges included:

• Achieving seamless integration of lasers with the existing infrastructure.
• Designing a system that ensured the safety of performers flying through the air and the team working in the water-filled stage.
• Identifying durable hardware that could operate reliably in a challenging environment with over 1.4 million liters of water.

Solution

Laser Saga, in partnership with KVANT Lasers, provided a comprehensive solution using KVANT’s Clubmax 6000 FB4 and Atom 20 laser systems. Chosen for their sharp beams, vibrant colors, and reliability, these lasers exceeded the technical demands of La Perle’s production.

Key Features of the Solution:

1. Laser Equipment Selection:
   • Clubmax 6000 FB4: These systems were chosen for their powerful performance, compact design, and ease of integration.
   • Atom 20: With greater power output, the Atom 20 enhanced overall visual impact, adding depth to key moments in the show.
2. Advanced Control Systems:
   • Integration with Pangolin’s FB4 platform allowed seamless synchronization with the theater’s infrastructure.
   • Beam Attenuation Mapping (BAM) and blanking plates ensured complete control over beam intensity and focusing to avoid interference with performers and the audience.
3. Design and Programming:
   • The laser systems were creatively programmed to align with Dragone's vision, emphasizing immersion. Lasers were not used in the traditional sense but as tools for creative storytelling, helping direct audience focus and building emotional connections.
4. Safety Measures:
   • Emergency stops (E-Stops) were integrated into the system, enabling instant shut-off during emergencies.
   • Enhanced safety protocols ensured that lasers operated perfectly around performers flying through the air and during wet stage conditions.

Implementation

The implementation process demanded precision and collaboration. Laser Saga worked closely with KVANT Lasers to ensure an efficient setup. With the FB4 controllers and Pangolin’s Beyond software, the systems were installed and programmed rapidly, meeting strict deadlines during production.

The integration included:

• Strategically positioning 11 lasers around the domed theater to maximize coverage and enhance storytelling.
• Calibrating the systems to balance dynamic effects with performer safety, particularly for the pool area and aerial acts.
• Training the technical team at La Perle to operate and maintain the laser systems efficiently.

Results

The collaboration between Laser Saga and KVANT Lasers resulted in a groundbreaking visual experience for La Perle, setting it apart from other water-based shows worldwide.

Quantifiable results and highlights of the project include:

• Enhanced Audience Immersion:
  Lasers directed the audience’s attention while creating dreamlike atmospheres that complemented the performances.
• Technical Excellence:
  Over a year of fault-free operation in a high-humidity environment demonstrated the reliability and resilience of KVANT laser systems.
• Creative Impact:
  Unique laser interactions with performers, especially the clown acts, helped advance the storyline in an unforgettable way.
• Safety Assurance:
  Comprehensive safety measures ensured zero incidents involving lasers, performers, or the audience during live performances.

Steve Critchley, Head of Lighting and Video at La Perle, expressed his satisfaction, stating:

“The show now does what no other water show does. We use lasers to distract attention and draw the audience’s focus where we want them to look, enhancing acts and delivering the storyline. I know there’s only one company I’ll turn to for future developments, and that’s KVANT.”

Conclusion

The integration of KVANT’s Clubmax 6000 FB4 and Atom 20 laser systems, in partnership with Laser Saga, transformed La Perle into a visual marvel. Creative laser programming combined with robust technical solutions elevated the production, illustrating how innovation and collaboration can redefine audience experiences. Moving forward, Laser Saga and KVANT Lasers remain committed to supporting La Perle on its artistic and technical evolution.