The crews on large events run can be up to 50 odd production lampies, depending on nature of the shows and the build time. Skilled techs are also supplemented with semi-skilled crew who help with the graft. Not sure I know anyone working in Beijing (DM is Lighting Designer for the handover to the UK – so I probably do) but if I find out, I will get a figure. I have worked on quite a few gigs of a similar scale and it’s all about good organisation.

Control for large shows are often semi-automated. Operators and control systems working in harmony. The biggest challenge with one large rig, is actually programming – too much for one person. It used to be that several operators ran different desks controlling a few DMX universes with particular models of fixture on – then they all ran the show. Now, the use of ethernet means that multiple operators program their desks simultaneously, merging control signals though one gateway that is used to trigger the show.

Although the Sydney Olympics was a while ago, Brad Schillers Book on Automated Lighting is still worth a read for his diary fo the event.

Thanks for you question.