Firerock: Pass the Spark

2018

Firerock: Pass the Spark - Sound Engineering Reflection

"Firerock: Pass the Spark," an innovative concert performance presented by Littleglobe in collaboration with Adobe Rose Theatre, New Energy Economy, Earth Care, and WildEarth Guardians, took place on January 19 & 20, 2018. The event aimed to activate hearts, imaginations, and communities through a compelling blend of story and song to address the challenges of climate change. As the sound engineer for this significant event, I played a pivotal role in ensuring the auditory experience complemented the impactful messages delivered on stage.

Event Overview:
The performance was directed by Acushla Bastible, with a book co-written by Bastible, Georgina Escobar, Nancy Vitale, and Molly Sturges, and a vibrant musical score crafted by Sturges, Enrico de Trizio, Luis Guerra, and Bastible. The production featured an impressive lineup, including Tony Award-winning music director Enrico de Trizio and notable actors such as Paul Kandel and Gina Breedlove. Held at the Adobe Rose Theatre in Santa Fe, the event drew a diverse audience, offering general admission and discounted tickets for seniors and students.

Sound Engineering Challenges and Solutions:
One of the key challenges in sound engineering for "Firerock: Pass the Spark" was managing the dynamic range of musical performances, spoken word, and ambient soundscapes that formed the core of the production. The musical elements required meticulous balancing to ensure clarity and impact, considering the varied instrumentation and the range of vocal talents.

To address these challenges, I utilized a multi-layered approach to sound mixing:

Dynamic Compression: To manage the varied dynamics of live music and spoken dialogue, I applied careful compression techniques, ensuring that all elements were clear and present in the mix without overpowering each other.
Spatial Sound Design: Using advanced panning and effects, I created a three-dimensional sound environment that enhanced the immersive experience of the performance. This was particularly effective in scenes depicting natural environments, which were crucial to the theme of climate change.
Collaboration with Musicians and Vocalists: Regular sound checks and collaborative discussions with the musicians and vocalists allowed for adjustments tailored to their specific needs and the acoustics of the Adobe Rose Theatre.
Impact on the Production:
The sound design played a crucial role in the overall success of "Firerock: Pass the Spark," enabling the audience to fully engage with the powerful narrative and musical performances. Feedback from the audience highlighted the clarity and quality of the sound, which was instrumental in conveying the urgency and emotional depth of the climate change message.

Personal Reflection:
Working as the sound engineer for this production was an enriching experience, blending technical challenges with the rewarding task of enhancing a performance that aimed to inspire change. The opportunity to work with a skilled production team and a cast of talented performers was immensely fulfilling, and it was a privilege to contribute to a project that not only entertained but also educated and activated its audience towards greater awareness and action on climate change.

Overall, "Firerock: Pass the Spark" was a testament to the power of collaborative artistic expression in addressing critical global issues, and I am proud to have been part of a team that brought such an important message to life through the art of sound engineering.