ALPS ACADEMY

 

LIGHTING CLASSES DESCRIPTION & OVERVIEW

 

LIGHTING DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS

        This is a basic design class to establish the fundamentals of lighting design. In this session, we will discuss fixture usage, cueing, visibility and basic effects. We will focus on aspects of beginning design and not touch on any technical info with the exception of some control. Session covers:

 

  • What’s the difference?:  A description of the different fixtures, quality of light and the basic usage of those fixtures, set mounts and practicals.
  • Where to put it?:  How to focus, angles of light and how they change a mood, basic cue placement.
  • Your pallet:  Basic color concepts, gels and how to choose your colors, split color, scrollers. Templates, why and where to use them.
  • How do I…?:  A basics “how to” for special effects. Snow, rain, rotating patterns/gobos, fire, clouds, twinkling stars. What are accessories and why do we use them like barndoors, tophats, donuts, etc.
  • Programming: Basic cueing, timing, and transitions.

 

 

TECHNICAL LIGHTING BASICS

        This is a basic technical class designed for a beginner. In this session, we will give the fundamentals of fixtures, power and control. Handouts with basics information are provided and along with a hands-on approach to learning the information. Session covers:

 

  • What’s that?: A description of basic fixtures, what they are used for and the basic/common accessories that goes with it. Overview of cable sizes, connectors, and types.
  • Don’t put your finger in there: Basic power review, w=va, dispelling the fear of electricity, basic safety,
  • Running the world: basic control, hard and soft patch, trouble shooting, different types of control boards, addressing, dmx, dimming, addressing
  • Connecting the dots: step-by-step from fixture to dimmer to control putting all the information into a diagram to connect it all.

 

 

 

MAINTENANCE & SAFETY

        This is a more in-depth class covering an overview of theatrical lighting fixtures. This session includes a “how to” for disassembling fixtures for repair and maintenance, what to look for, how to clean and maintain them, and most important… how to re-assemble them. You will learn how to find and fix your basic problems. Session Covers:

 

  • Parts is parts: An overview of each fixtures components and various parts.
  • Keep it clean and bright: How to clean and perform basic maintenance on your fixtures to keep them running with maximum light output. Inspecting and fixing cable and connectors for burns, cracking, and potential hazards.
  • Basic troubleshooting: Where to start when something is not working and the step by step process to get to the problem.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What classes do you offer?

Currently, classes include the following topics (see course descriptions/overview above):

·         Lighting Design & Fundamentals

·         Technical Lighting Basics

·         Maintenance & Safety


We also offer several Lighting Control Console specific training classes including:

·         ETC Ion controller

·         ETC Element controller

·         ETC Smartfade and Smartfade ML controllers

·         ETC Express 125/250 controllers

·         Jands Hog 500/1000 moving light controllers

·         Jands Vista moving light controller

·         Martin Light Jockey

Note: Training for other lighting controllers are available, please inquire.

 

Where are classes held?

        With your convenience in mind, ALPS created these classes to be able to be held at your school/theatre/venue! This allows us to teach in the environment you work in AND saves you the hassle of scheduling and transporting your group.

Note: If you prefer, ALPS offers classes at our facility in Randolph, MA.

Lighting Controller training is generally held at ALPS in Randolph, MA, but we do offer on-site training options.

           

       How long are the classes?

        The "Lighting Design Fundamentals”, “Technical Lighting Basics” and “Maintenance & Safety” classes typically run about 2 to 3 hours. This generally allows enough time for the instruction, Q&A and some hands-on training. We also recognize this as a reasonable amount of time for your brain to reach its daily information saturation point.

        The Lighting Control Console classes go into more detail and can run up to 4 hours.

 

How much do these classes cost?

        The rates are based per class, not per person.

        The "Lighting Design Fundamentals”, “Technical Lighting Basics” and “Maintenance & Safety” classes start at $400 per session (2 to 3 hours). Class cost can vary depending upon your location and specific needs. Please call for an exact quote.

        The Lighting Control Console classes run between $300 to $450, depending upon the specific console. Control Console class rates are based upon the class being held at ALPS in Randolph, MA. On-site classes are available at additional cost – please call to inquire.

 

How many people may attend a class?

              We do not have a limit to the class size for the "Lighting Design Fundamentals”, “Technical Lighting Basics” and “Maintenance & Safety” classes. However, we recommend that you set a limit of about 10 attendees. This will ensure your entire class gets time for some hands-on education.


             The Lighting Control Console classes have a limit of no more than 2 participants. These classes are quite detailed and involve close interaction with the controller used, and we have found that having more than 2 participants sitting at the controller reduces the effectiveness of the course. Control Console classes for larger groups can be arranged at additional cost – please call to inquire.

 

How can I get more information or book a class?

You may call 866-961-3066 and ask for Nicole Cerra.

You may email us at ALPSacademy@alpsweb.com