The Etherredge Center Celebrates New Installation

Aiken, SC (01/15/2021) — The Etherredge Center at The University of South Carolina Aiken celebrated the installation of a new fly system for its main stage on Friday.

The fly system is the series of pipes, also referred to as "batens," motors, and winches that allow scenery to fly in and out of the theatrical space. The old system, which had been in place for over 20 years, could no longer be used due to safety concerns.

Last May, the $600,000 renovation and installation of the new, computer-driven, motorized system began. The new system provides state-of-the-art technology and allows operation at both fixed-speed and variable-speed line sets to fly scenery, soft goods, lighting equipment, and more.

Chet Longley, associate professor of visual and performing arts, said that this new system is not only a win for UofSC Aiken, but also the community.

"Our audiences will notice a greater variety of production styles in the events they attend. Some productions that have not been producible in our facility and others that omitted scenic elements will now find their needs met."

The system was designed by Electronic Theatre Controls, Incorporated (ETC), the global leader in manufacturing of lighting and rigging technology. It was installed by Productions Unlimited, Incorporated, a Theatrical Systems Integrator company, based out of Roebuck, SC.

"We are thrilled about the capabilities this new fly system will give us, allowing us to better serve our department of Visual & Performing Arts, as well as the touring artists and local clients that perform in our fabulous facility," said Paul Crook, director of The Etherredge Center.

The new fly system will be used for the first time in its complete form on Saturday, January 16 at 2 p.m. at the live performance of The Queen's Cartoonists.

The Queen's Cartoonists play music from classic cartoons and contemporary animation. The performances are synchronized to video projections of the original films, and the band leads the audience through a world of virtuosic musicianship, multi-instrumental mayhem, and comedy.

The Etherredge Center is currently operating at 50% capacity, following distancing, mask, and cleaning guidelines set forth by DHEC and the CDC. All patrons will have the temperatures checked upon entry, and seating will follow distancing guidelines. There is also an option view the performance through a livestream.

Tickets for The Queen's Cartoonist can be purchased online at etherredge.usca.edu or over the phone by calling 803-641-3305.

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