THE BRIEF
Working closely with the team at Warwick castle we discussed the elements of the show and how we could enhance certain points. We have a large range of effects at our disposal so were able to select the most appropriate combination. There were a couple of key moments where the client wanted to simulate a flaming arrow being fired which we recreated using a fast moving firework, fired at an angle from the battlements. Another key point in the projection is the dragon breathing fire.
THE CHALLENGE
Each site we work on is different and Warwick castle certainly adds another challenge or two. At various occasions throughout the show we incorporated pyrotechnics (clean and quiet Fireworks). These had to be fired from top of the battlements, in order to match the story in the projection below. The access to the battlements and top of the turret is up spiral staircases. These are narrow, cramped and difficult to navigate in the dark, let alone carrying equipment. In the arena area itself we had to provide a ring of fire to surround two of the actors in a sequence before they were set free.
THE SOLUTION
We had to design our equipment to be safe to fire the product from, and yet manageable to carry up (and down) difficult staircases.
The dragon flame, also had to be fired on the top of the steps to the battlements. We constructed a bespoke case to rig the flame on the stairs, and ensure that it would safely fire on the cue. We had to have our crew ensuring that the actor was away from the unit which was communicated by radio to the firing position in the control tower. The ring of fire was provided by wirelessly triggered flame bars that were built into the stage area.
THE RESULT
The effects worked well, and provided a few surprise moments. The precise shots from the battlements, the finale (wedding) sequence of fireworks and the main photo moment which was the dragon breathing real fire from the battlements. The flame bar provided a great effect, and looked very realistic, during an intense scene.
Check out some photos of the show below, along with a video of the flame and firework display on the battlements.
Photos taken and kindly shared by Warwick Castle & GL Events.
