Theatrical Projections

How it Works

Hippie in Black provides custom animated digital backgrounds designed to act as the backdrops for popular musicals.

What is Provided in your projection Rental

Hippie in Black provides the video assets that are tailored to the show that you are doing. Once you have ordered the show that you are doing, you will receive a Dropbox link that you will have access to for 30 days. You will be able to download the content immediately. Each show projection package with contain all videos required to successfully run the show, a suggested cue list, and a few alternate videos to suit your preferences. You will receive both high definition 1920 x 1080 as well as 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution versions of the show. By default, you will be provided ProRes versions of the video, but if you need a different Codec, please reach out and request it!

What do you Need to Use Projected Backdrops?

In order to use projected backdrops, you will need to do a couple of things first. Start by assessing whether your theater already has a projector system. If it does, Great! All you need a capable computer and the Projection Package and you're ready to go!

If you're theater does not already have a projection system in place, you will need to make sure that there is enough space and a strong enough rigging point or system to be able to hang one or even multiple projectors. If the projector(s) cannot be hung, there are other options! Projectors have many different lens options that make it possible to project from behind the screen, or 'rear project' as well as project very close to the screen with the help of a short throw lens. Keep in mind that a short throw lens is a sizable investment, but can also be rented.

Once you have made sure that you're theater either has a projection system or is capable of bringing one in, you will need something to project on. Luckily, cycloramas are perfect and already used in many theaters. The ideal projection surface is light in color (white, beige, or even light gray), flat with little to no surface imperfections or variations, and stable, not prone to rippling or moving. If you choose to rear project, you will need a surface that lets light through, spandex can been a great option.

Lastly, you will need a software that facilitates running the show. There are many options to do this such as Resolume, Millumen, QLab, and Playback Pro, to name a few.

Nuances with Using Projected Backdrops

Something to keep in mind when using projected backdrops opposed to physical backdrops is that the projector uses light in order to display the animated backdrops. Because of this, it is important to think about where to hang the projector so that it doesn't hit the actors. You will need to hang or place the projector high enough and far enough back so that it is only hitting the screen and not the play space of the actors.

Lighting will also need to be designed so that it hits the projection screen as little as possible, if not totally avoided. Brighter projectors are able to withstand being hit with some lighting, but ultimately, lights that interfere with the projector will washout the image.