Hero
Sea Monster, Hastings Beach, September 2006
7 meter fire and pyrotechnic sculpture, design and construction - Laurie Piper, metal work and welding - Wayne Kemp, pyrotechnics - Renegade.
Hero reviewed in Coastal Currents
'Greek mythology inspired an innovative firework display on the beach last Sunday. 'Hero' matched choral singing and performance with stunning pyrotechnics to interpret the tale of Perceus and Andromeda for the crowd at Pelham. The performance, commissioned for Coastal Currents, was a joint effort by Radiator Arts, Renegade Pyrotechnics and composer Juliet Russell. The 45-minute show saw glowing gold costumes, translucent illuminated sculptures and two large pieces representing Medusa and a sea serpent, each of which burst into flames during the event.
The tale was timed with awe inspiring fireworks and beautiful song from the choir made up of local singers. Set against the backdrop of the dark sea the pyrotechnics received gasps and applause from the audience. The music intensified for the finale, which saw the sea serpent destroyed while some spectacular fireworks soared into the sky. Hero was one of the highlights of this year's Coastal Currents festival, which continues with other events and open studios until Saturday, see www.coastalcurrents.org.uk for details.'
Creation to Cessation
Pod and Inflatables, Brighton Festival, May 2005
Linton Gardens, Hastings, Coastal Currents Festival, 2004.
Lotus Pod and Inflatables designed and built by Laurie Piper. Fan designed and built by Leigh Dyer.
A mix of projected film, light, music and fire in this evening show inspired by the elements of earth, air, water and fire.
In a finale featuring images beamed on to a giant pod, the audience is greeted by out-of-this-world encounters.
The show was developed over a three year period and intially performed in Hastings Castle for the Coastal Currents Festival. As the show evolved we worked with Sue Marshalls Dance Company, local circus performers and local youth and community groups who participated in film making workshops.
At each new venue the elemental themes were reinterpreted in site specific contexts with pyrotechnic and lighting effects enhanced by the natural surroundings.