Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka, is one of the four Universal Studios theme parks in the world. As part of its Universal Wonder Christmas 2012 initiative, Universal Studios Japan put on a Christmas spectacular, “The Song of an Angel 2012.” Projection design studio BARTKRESA Design created the multimedia content, engineered and deployed all projection mapping and equipment.
The system uses Dataton WATCHOUT multi-image display and presentation software to manage images in a complex and stunning production that combines performances from a 60-strong cast of actors and opera singers with lighting and special effects, on a building façade and stage measuring 250 ft wide and 70 ft tall.
“Christmas time is a family time, and we were been brought in to create stunning visuals that immerse and transport viewers on a Christmas journey,” said Bart Kresa, Projection Designer at BARTKRESA Design. “In the design process, we created the sketches, paintings, 3D designs and animations managed using WATCHOUT. We produced the whole thing working with the Universal Studios Japan Show Director on creative elements and the Universal Studios Japan Producer on technical requirements.”
“WATCHOUT works in sync with the show using a time code that syncs lighting, sound, projection and smoke machines. We use masking, perspective control and have done some layering of animations such as snow over background animations.”
Twelve playback and four production WATCHOUT servers managed the content which was displayed with 31 projectors including the Christie Roadster S+20K and Christie Roadster HD18K 1080 HD DLP models supplied by Corporate Image Associates. Images are projected onto a stage and the main building façade, creating a magnificent backdrop for the show.
“Once again, the skill, creativity and expertise of Bart Kresa is teamed with WATCHOUT to create a dramatic, celestial, show which I’m proud to see has wowed audiences at Universal Studios Japan from both Japan and abroad,” said Fredrik Svahnberg, marketing director at Dataton
Image: BARTKRESA Design
