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Stage Rigging Handbook, Revised, 2nd Edition |
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Written by Administrator
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Stage Rigging Handbook, Revised, 2nd Edition by Jay O. Glerum (Author)
Explaining his purpose, Jay O. Glerum points out that four main principles constitute the core of this book: know the rigging system; know that it is in safe working order; know how to use it; keep your concentration. Glerum applies these principles to all the major types of stage rigging systems, including block and tackle, hemp, counterweight, and motorized. He describes each type of rigging and then thoroughly reviews the operating procedures and ways of inspecting existing systems.
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Review
"It should be noted that this is
definitely a reference book. It’s meant to be skimmed first and then
attacked in chunks according to your needs. . . . What Stage Rigging Handbook will
do is clearly explain the basics of how to maintain your rigging system
and operate it safely. It can also be a ready reference and friend when
rigging a show. This is a book to always keep handy in a cubby hole at
the end of your pin rail. Be safe. Don’t guess."—Steve Nelson, reviewing the first edition in Dramatics
Book Description
Stage Rigging Handbook is written in an at-a-glance outline form, yet contains in-depth information available nowhere else.
This
second edition includes two new parts: the first, an expanded
discussion of the forces and loads on stage rigging components and the
structure supporting them; the second, an examination of block and
tackle rigging. The remaining four parts contain numerous revisions.
Explaining
his purpose, Jay O. Glerum points out that four main principles
constitute the core of this book: know the rigging system; know that it
is in safe working order; know how to use it; keep your concentration.
Glerum applies these principles to all the major types of stage rigging
systems, including block and tackle, hemp, counterweight, and
motorized. He describes each type of rigging and then thoroughly
reviews the operating procedures and ways of inspecting existing
systems.
To provide background, Glerum opens with the
basic theory of applied physics as it relates to rigging. Step by step,
he explains the calculations required to determine safe working loads
for various components. Glerum’s many anecdotes help the reader
translate theory into reality.
Glerum then turns to four
separate and detailed treatments of the main types of theatrical
rigging. His thorough descriptions include drawings that identify each
separate component of the rigging. He points out the advantages of each
system, detailing everything from the mechanical advantage and the
effects of wear on rope to the best ways to tie off the pin rail and to
store weights. Because stagecraft often has been handed down orally
from one stagehand to the next, incorrect—as well as
dangerous—assumptions exist in the trade. Glerum provides a ready
reference for everything from how to tie a knot to how to effectively
communicate a warning for a runaway set.
Glerum also
discusses special problems such as cutting fiber rope, terminating wire
rope, attaching drops and framed scenery, using trusses and bridles,
dead hanging, tripping, guiding loads, and other topics. He also covers
recordkeeping, with tips and pointers on how to establish an inspection
log.
About the Author
Jay O. Glerum regularly
teaches classes on stage rigging throughout the United States, Canada,
and Europe. He currently is chairman of the Rigging and Stage Machinery
Standards Committee of the United States Institute for Theatre
Technology, a fellow of the Institute, and president of Jay O. Glerum
& Associates, Inc., a firm specializing in consulting for the
entertainment industry.
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