Author Topic: Backstage Calling Station/Console  (Read 3990 times)

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David_McGraw

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Backstage Calling Station/Console
« on: Dec 05, 2011, 03:36 pm »
It looks as though this question hasn't come up for a couple of years:

What do you look for in a backstage calling console/station?  My theatre is in the process of building a new one and I am looking for best practices and all the latest bells and whistles.  What do you love or hate about your backstage station?  Should we install a cupholder for water bottles?
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MatthewShiner

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #1 on: Dec 05, 2011, 06:45 pm »
Flexibility in monitor location
Space for a pen/pencil cup
Ability for two headsets for training
Lockable storage
USB Charging!!!!  (Seriously, this needs to be standard backstage)
Edison power
Phone
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Anything posted here as in my own personal opinion, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of my employer - whomever they be at a given moment in time.

LizzG

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #2 on: Dec 05, 2011, 11:30 pm »
I would second a cup holder!

nick_tochelli

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #3 on: Dec 05, 2011, 11:42 pm »
If you're building the monitor system from scratch (and have the funds) one thing you'd definitely want is the IR camera. Nothing like seeing in the dark! Beyond that....I'd say make sure you have enough room for both your script and laptop on the calling position. Nothing drives me more crazy than having room for only one of those two items.

babens

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #4 on: Dec 06, 2011, 10:51 pm »
If your theatre has a cue light system don't forget to find a way to integrate your control system for that into your station/console.

dackj

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #5 on: Dec 07, 2011, 07:41 am »
A clear-com panel with channel selection. (if you use clear-com)

megf

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #6 on: Dec 07, 2011, 08:47 am »
Flexibility so the caller can sit (in a drafting chair or similar) OR stand
Flexibility in where Q-lites are placed, if possible - righty/lefty callers will thank you!
A 1'' high lip all the way across the edge of the primary surface - not just braces for the book itself
Hooks or shelves for sundries (tissues, some essential first aid, tape, etc)

David_McGraw

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #7 on: Dec 07, 2011, 03:29 pm »
Thanks for all of these great ideas and considerations.  I have my first budget meeting tomorrow and this gives me much food for thought!
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MatthewShiner

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Re: Backstage Calling Station/Console
« Reply #8 on: Dec 07, 2011, 06:06 pm »
oh, and beer on tap . . .
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Anything posted here as in my own personal opinion, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of my employer - whomever they be at a given moment in time.

 

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