Computer Needs

Ok, just checking ;) I don't know much about the lighting design/computers, but I'm sure there's some info on the FAQ. You can also try a search, I'm sure we've discussed some stuff before. What happens is you need a lighting desk which works with a computer program. I recommend going to www.alia.com.au, which is the Aussie Lighting Industry Assoc. They have heaps of info about lighting design, computer programs, etc etc. They also have a forum there too, and they can answer some of your questions as well. This stuff is usually expensive, ($100 or more for the computer program, plus a computer, plus a lighting desk which can be a couple of grand). It's an investment, but it can be quite costly for a school. There are similar programs for sound; both operating it during the performance and for editing/creating it. Again, it can be expensive, but schools usually get a discounted price. I know Swinburne in Prahran uses special software, but I forget what it is. My best guess is to contact a school (I noticed on your profile you have a VIC postcode) which has a decent theatre set up. Any of the private schools for instance (Scotch comes to mind), as they also usually hire venue technicians who would have good knowledge of the school theatre set up and what they use. As for what types of computers they use, it would depend on a range of things. My guess is that the schools would use whatever provides the best resource across the board (ie. for use in classrooms in science, music, English, etc etc) and is cheap. I know from past experience with my own school Toshiba is used a lot, although many people are now turning more towards Macs than PCs because Macs offer better creative arts packages (I think Swinburne have a Mac actually). Hope that helps; someone else should come along and provide a more specific answer. Round head foam puppet pattern at Puppets in Melbourne