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What's
involved with planning and producing a fireworks display? Much more than
the average observer thinks!
We begin with the
client. We work together to determine the tone for the evening, discussing noise, color,
music and how they relate to the theme. Do they want patriotism, joy, humor, or to cover a
broad range of emotions? Once the music is chosen and digitally edited, we begin the
process of picking shells and other display items. These items are entered into a
customized database and then imported to the choreography software. As we listen to this
music again and again, we artistically visualize the place for each shell or display item.
We can shoot varying styles, scenarios in color and activity, and
create actual scenes in the sky, matching each shell or display item to the
mood of the music.
Once the show is created, choreography worksheets are prepared. We then
utilize a "high-tech" piece of hardware called FireVoice. This technology tells
us, and records in synchronization with the music, exactly when to fire individual
cues. These worksheets then go the our magazines, where the shells and other display
items are stored. We then pull the shells and write the cue number on each. Shows can take one to seven days to set up, depending upon
size and design complexity. A small show can be effectively setup and fired with a
crew of 3 people. Large events can have as many as 50 people involved with
preparation. Success at any show means paying attention to setup details.
An example - we often use a protractor (a step-up from old-fashioned eye-balling) to set
specific angles on mortars to assure correct display patterns in the sky.
The
result of this extra, and often time consuming, process can be seen with
the graceful performance of comets and display Roman Candles, and multiple
shots of aerial shells.
Firing system connector rails are put out and
control wires are run. We then load the shells, double checking their
position as we go.. We are finished and ready for the show at least 3 – 4
hours before show time (most of the time!). The staff continues to check the site and
prepares for the show performance. Clean up is as important as the show, and we
do not leave the site until the entire drop area has been cleaned of any
possibly unfired material. The safety measures in clean-up are as carefully
controlled as during the shoot.
If you would like to know more about how
fireworks can become an integral part of your next celebration, corporate
event or wedding,
reserve a show or contact
Entertainment Fireworks by either emailing us or call the numbers on this
site's Contact Us