Lights and action... A tip from Dick Franco

Poorly arranged stage lighting is often encountered by the professional or semi ­ professional juggler. The worst condition is probably when you are lit only from the front, with no side or back lighting. This is made worse by a dark, non­reflective background.

This situation is ideal for audiences, as the props are seen clearly against a contrasting background. However, all the juggler sees is the black shadows on the back of each prop.

Although this is nearly a hopeless situation, you can slightly improve your view of the props by turning slightly to the right and left while performing. In this manner, you can see more of the lit side of the props than when facing the lights directly.

Some tricks, such as back crosses or a club shower over the head, are very effective from a full or three-quarter rear view. This affords the audience a good look at the your moves and the front lighting is now in your favor. It is always a good precaution to rehearse the act in advance on stage, so that you are always prepared for the less-than-perfect lighting situation.

A low wattage flood light and long extension cord are handy additions to your prop case as well, and worth their weight in gold if you encounter poor lighting!

A QUIZ FROM MARY WISSER, ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

Do You Know Your Juggling Literature?

1. Possum juggling 4 across