Eurovision Song Contest Empowerment - Discovering the Techniques PRG Used to Equip the Eurovision Song Contest
=====================================================================
At the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kiev, a significant technical advancement was made in live event lighting technology with the introduction of the GroundControl Long Throw followspot system. This innovative lighting solution provided powerful, long-distance, motorised followspot lighting, enhancing the show's dramatic lighting effects and enabling complex lighting choreography.
The Eurovision Song Contest, one of the largest live and TV events, reached approximately 200 million viewers annually across Europe. For the first time, the GroundControl Long Throw was used at an event in Europe, integrating seamlessly into the extensive production setup.
The GroundControl Long Throw is a variant of the GroundControl Followspot System, optimised for long-distance projection. It allows for remote, computer-controlled operation, providing enhanced precision and creative lighting possibilities. The system combines motorised, computer-controlled followspot fixtures with software that allows control over pan, tilt, zoom, iris, colour, and other features.
During the Eurovision 2017 event, a total of 18 GroundControl systems were used, with 14 PRG Bad Boy and 4 GroundControl Long Throw units. These systems replaced traditional manual followspots, reducing the number of physical spot operators and enabling complex light movements and colour effects.
The long throw capability came from optimised optics and focused light output tailored for large-scale venues. This allowed for sharp, bright followspot beams from a distance, essential for illuminating performers on a large stage while maintaining high mobility and flexibility for lighting designers.
The GroundControl Long Throw was first notably used at the Eurovision Song Contest in Kiev, where it was part of an advanced lighting setup that also included the GLP JDC1 LED hybrid stroboscope, ESC light designer Jerry Applet's light show, and the ball ballet by Stage Kinetik using the BlackTrax live tracking system.
PRG, a leading provider of entertainment and event technology solutions, was an exhibitor at Prolight + Sound 2017, where the PRG Live Entertainment Awards (PRG LEA) were presented. The PRG LEA stage provided an impressive demo and product show featuring Foxos' performance of "DooM".
Since its debut at Eurovision 2017, the GroundControl Long Throw has been highlighted in large tours and productions for its ability to manage followspot duties remotely and with versatile lighting effects. It represents a significant step forward in the evolution of professional entertainment lighting technology.
The Eurovision Song Contest in Kiev utilized technology from PRG, setting new standards in technology each year. The setup for the event took four and a half weeks, with approximately 200 trucks depositing equipment in the ESC arena. The teardown took seven days.
In summary, the GroundControl Long Throw made its European debut at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, providing powerful, long-distance, motorised followspot lighting with remote, computer-controlled operation. This setup represented a significant technical advancement in live event lighting technology.
- The GroundControl Long Throw, introduced at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, revolutionized live event lighting technology, allowing integration with social-media platforms for real-time shareable effects during entertainment events.
- Amidst the rise of technology and advancements in entertainment, gadgets like the GroundControl Long Throw have become essential tools for lighting designers, enabling seamless control of complicated lighting choreography and even connecting with technology like social-media and technology solutions from companies like PRG.
