Electric control of stage and television lighting

The paper surveys the progress in switchboard control of stage and television lighting which has been made in the past 25 years. The various types of dimmer which form the basis are outlined, with particular reference to their remote control. The methods of co-ordinating control, using particular forms of levers and grouping aids, such as master selection and presetting, are described. Details of the application of organ-console techniques to the `playing¿ of light are given, together with reasons for a preference for electromechanical dimmer systems rather than the American all-electric dimmer or the Continental electro-mechanical desk. All three systems are described.