Category: Tutorials

Projector shutter control scripts for Qlab (Panasonic)

TL;DR: Control a Panasonic projector’s power and shutters using Qlab (Developed using a Panasonic D6000) The Story: In our examples in this post, we are using a Panasonic D6000 – every brand is different and uses different controls. I’ve used this with more than one model from Panasonic. This post will probably be more of …

A Brush-up on Basics – some helpful posts on Qlab and workflow

I work with a lot of students, across a few schools. I count myself lucky to be able to share with them what I know – as well as learn a lot from them. Many have become just “younger peers” because I like to work collaboratively, even if I am driving the design. Last month …

Automatically Switching Cue Lists in Qlab

TL;DR: Tell Qlab to automatically switch to another Cue List so that you’re ready to go – like jumping from Act 1 to Act 2, or out of your Preshow routine. No clicks needed, and make life easier for your board op. The Story: My goal with this blog is to help as many designers and …

Actually using that digital script/prompt book

TL;DR: Use the PDF version of your script/prompt book while running your live show. The Story: Last week’s blog post has already covered creating digital prompt books in detail – here I am going to show how I have worked those PDFs into my live show workflow. For following your prompt book during the show, you …

Digital play scripts/prompt books are here!

TL;DR: Ditch paper scripts/prompt books for computer copies. Never lose or forget your script again, and guess what – it’s BACKLIT! The Story: I design in a lot of different theatres, often with overlapping schedules. This is a common designer dilemma.  There was one time I had six shows opening within a six week window! …

Cue numbering, and playing well with others

TL;DR: How to write cue numbers with a system that lets you skip around, know where you are in your cue sheet, and be compatible with other departments…by working in blocks of ten. The Story: Some seasons are completely insane for me. It’s a common theme for designers – you’ve got maybe one too many …

September is Cue and Script Month on the Rocktzar blog!

This month, we are going to post around the theme of cues and scripts – numbering systems, digital scripts/prompt books, Applescripts for Qlab that will turn the pages of those scripts, and more. Here are the topics we will be looking at: Cue numbering, and playing well with others Digital play scripts/prompt books are here! …

Using Qlab to control Spotify and house music

TL;DR: If you’re using Spotify for house music, here is how to control it using Qlab. Especially helpful for random little shows & presentations. The Story: Spotify has become a dominant player in how we discover and consume music.  With almost 150 million active users and almost 20% of Americans using it every month, it’s …

Using Qlab to control iTunes and house music

TL;DR: If you are using iTunes to play your house music, here is how to control it using Qlab. The Story: Ah, iTunes. That old workhorse of a music player that has bloated with responsibility for all kinds of media and syncing. Consumer music listening habits may have moved on from local libraries, but iTunes …

Designing house music – Qlab, CD, iTunes, or Spotify?

TL;DR: Putting together house music, with the case made that you use Qlab for its level of control. The Story: When designing sound for a show. house music is much more than just an afterthought, whereby you just put on some random music and hit play. Properly done, house music – preshow, intermission, and postshow …