Date: Mon, 07 Nov 2005 00:04:09 -0500
To: puptcrit-AT-lists.driftline.org
From: Joe <joe-AT-dunfee.com>
Subject: [Puptcrit] Performing in front of rear projection


   I am planning a show for which I am thinking about rear-screen video
projection.

   It will involve me operating some short-strung marionettes cabaret style.
Actually, they are very short strung so that I can elevate them a bit
(perhaps 12"), as I stand on floor level.  These characters are astronomers
who will be thinking about their theories, and I want to visually depict
them in some way.  I've been thinking about physical ways (because I prefer
anything physical over a projection), but because I want to perform solo,
the video projection sounds like a more practical solution.

   I act as narrator between scenes, so will occasionally need to be
lighted. Then the puppet will take priority, and I should be more in the
shadows as operator.   Currently I am picturing the small platform for the
puppet being about 6' in front of the rear screen. The screen will be the
Rosco black type screen that looks a dark gray when not being used as a
projection screen.  In addition, I want to cover the screen with a fine
black scrim, to make it as black as possible.

  I imagine I will need some ellipsoid type lights so that I can put a very
controlled beam of light on the puppet when it is being used. For when I
speak as narrator,  I think I can bring up a more general light that I use
when I want to illuminate myself. At this time I will probably be putting
one puppet away, and bringing another out. this is why I will want the wider
beamed light because I will be moving about. And since this will not be when
I am using the projector, I don't mind spill from that general light
illuminating the screen/scrim behind me.

  The main challenge to using the projector system is that I want the
feeling of infinite space.  Since video projectors have a fairly bright
"black", I am thinking of ways to make their black more black.  The scrim is
part. Getting a DLP type projector is another because it has a much better
contrast ratio over LCD projectors.  I also think my scrim will help.  But I
am fishing for other ideas as well.

   I am less concerned about the use of motion in my video than in the ease
of changing the image which may only be one image for each character.
Perhaps other methods are viable and will yield a better darkness for the
depiction of space.  A custom theatrical gobo in an ellipsoid light may be
sufficient.  There are even gobo changers which may allow me to change
images.  But, this will probably be more expensive than the video projector.

    Anyone here had any practical experience with using rear-screen
projection in this type of setting?  How black were you able to get the
black from the projector?
Joe Dunfee  joe-AT-dunfee.com
Gordonville, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.

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