In it theaterevery second counts. A light that enters late, a music that does not sound on time or a change of disincochless scene can break the magic. Therefore, many technicians, directors and even actors are resorting to an unexpected tool to maintain the perfect pace, the Apple Watch.
What started as a simple health watch, is now used as a hidden command between bambalins. As is discreet, it is always connected and works with a lot of apps, many productions take advantage of it to control lights, throw sounds or send signs without anyone in the public finding out.
Take advantage of Apple Watch to control theater lights
One of the most common ways to use it is like Remote trigger. Applications such as Qlab Remote allow you to launch sound clues or lighting effects from the clock, with only one touch. This is especially useful in small or independent assemblies where there is no large technical team, and the same person can be handling several aspects of the doll function.
It is also used to Synchronize actions. Some actors use it to receive subtle notices, such as a small vibration just before an entry or a key action. Others use it with countdown apps to control the exact time of a scene without looking at a clock in an evident way.
Discretion is key. Unlike a mobile or an iPad, the Apple Watch can go completely unnoticed by the scene or in the backstage. It can be hidden under the wardrobe or use with a discreet black strap. Its screen does not illuminate like that of other devices, and control by touches or gestures is silent, something essential in an environment where the slightest noise can ruin a moment.
In some modern montages, the Apple Watch has even been integrated as part of the Technical script. It is configured to send notifications to the lighting or sound equipment according to the advance of the text. Thus, if an actor improvises or there is a slight deviation in the rhythm, the effects in real time can be adjusted.
Of course, this does not replace the professional systems of large productions, but in the independent theater, with little budget, where each tool counts, the Apple Watch has earned a hole in its own right. Being small and efficient, it is ideal for this type of thing, as long as you already have it, since buying one for it is not cheap.
So the next time you go to see a work and see someone looking at their clock in a corner … they may not look at the time. They may be directing the function.
And you, did you know this? Did you know that Apple Watch could serve it? The truth is that I had no idea, and a friend told me, so I started investigating a bit how all this worked, and it surprised me a lot, although it is clear that it would be better to show us someone who really uses him in his day to day. Leave us a comment if you know it and you have ever applied it.
